New Hampshire Senate Bill SB442

New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/30/21
• Refer: 12/30/21
• Report Pass: 2/10/22
• Report Pass: 3/23/22
• Engrossed: 4/1/22
• Refer: 4/1/22
• Report Pass: 4/13/22
• Refer: 4/21/22
• Report Pass: 4/28/22
• Enrolled: 5/27/22
• Chaptered: 6/8/22
• Passed: 6/8/22

Caption

Relative to the suspension of a vehicle registration as a result of evading toll collection systems.

Impact

The law is expected to have a significant impact on the state's enforcement of toll regulations. By implementing registration suspensions for those who evade tolls, it aims to enhance compliance among drivers using toll roads. However, it also introduces additional administrative processes for both the department of motor vehicles and the owners involved, including stipulations for hearings to contest the suspensions. The financial implications for the state remain uncertain, as the revenue generated from fines is described as indeterminable due to variabilities in compliance and enforcement outcomes.

Summary

Senate Bill 442, enacted in New Hampshire, addresses the issue of toll evasion by granting authorities the ability to suspend vehicle registration for owners who have outstanding toll and administrative fees. The bill mandates that vehicle registration privileges will be suspended if the owner has violated toll regulations as per RSA 236:31. This means that any vehicle driven in violation will not only see its registration privileges suspended but also prohibit the owner from transferring ownership until all dues are settled. The bill is aimed at reducing instances of toll evasion and ensuring that all tolls and fees are collected prior to allowing vehicle ownership transfers.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB 442 focus on the fairness and impact of such measures on vehicle owners. Critics argue that suspending registration could disproportionately affect lower-income individuals who may already be struggling to pay tolls and fees. Additionally, questions have been raised about the administrative burden this places on the department of transportation and whether it will effectively deter future violations. The bill does provide a mechanism for hearings, which might mitigate some concerns, but the overall effectiveness in reducing toll evasion remains to be seen.