Texas Senate Bill SB382

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to toll collections and enforcement by a toll project entity.

Impact

One significant aspect of SB382 is its provision for toll project entities to send initial invoices by mail or electronic means to vehicle owners who fail to pay tolls at the time of crossing toll facilities. The bill prohibits the assessment of additional fees beyond a postage fee for these initial invoices. This is intended to create a more transparent and user-friendly approach to toll collection while encouraging timely payments without burdening users with excessive penalties.

Summary

SB382, titled 'Relating to toll collections and enforcement by a toll project entity,' aims to amend specific provisions within the Transportation Code. It seeks to streamline and clarify the processes surrounding toll collection and the associated enforcement actions that toll entities can take against violators. The bill proposes modifications to existing sections related to how toll project entities may enforce decisions and manage payment processes for tolls, particularly through electronic invoicing and notification systems.

Contention

During discussions about SB382, some stakeholders raised concerns about the enforcement mechanisms that would be established by the bill. For instance, the ability of toll project entities to place immobilization devices on vehicles that are the subject of enforcement actions could spark debate regarding individual rights versus the need for effective toll collection. Additionally, while the bill aims to streamline processes, there are concerns about the potential administrative burden that may arise from new notification obligations for toll project entities, particularly regarding how these changes will be implemented practically and their impact on operational efficiency.