Relating to the issuance of "Choose Life" license plates and the creation of the Choose Life account in the general revenue fund.
Impact
The creation of the 'Choose Life account' allows the attorney general to administrate funds from the sale of the license plates, which are designated to provide material assistance to pregnant women and infants awaiting placement in adoption. The funds raised are intended to be utilized for essentials such as clothing, housing, prenatal care, and transportation, ensuring that they cannot be diverted for administrative or legal purposes. Additionally, eligible organizations that receive these funds must adhere to strict criteria, which includes not providing any abortion-related services or referrals.
Summary
SB1098, titled the 'Choose Life' initiative, concerns the issuance of specialized license plates that display the phrase 'Choose Life'. The bill mandates that Texas's transportation department collaborate with the attorney general to create these plates. License plate fees, after administrative deductions, will be allocated to a newly established 'Choose Life account' within the state's general revenue fund, intended to assist in the promotion of adoption services and support for pregnant women considering adoption as an option.
Contention
Debates surrounding SB1098 highlight significant points of contention, especially among advocates of reproductive rights. Critics are concerned that such a funding mechanism may prioritize ideological preferences around adoption and against abortion, thus marginalizing organizations that do not align with these principles. Conversely, proponents argue that the measure expands support for adoption and provides a way for Texans to express their values regarding life and family. The establishment of the advisory committee, which reports to the attorney general on grant applications, further underscores the oversight structure accompanying the allocation of the funds.
Relating to the issuance of Support Adoption specialty license plates and to the Support Adoption account and certain voluntary contributions to that account.
Relating to the issuance of certain tags, permits, and license plates authorizing the movement of vehicles and the transfer and renewal of certain license plates.
Relating to the creation of the open burn pit registry fund and the issuance of specialty license plates to honor members of the United States armed forces exposed to open burn pits.
Relating to the creation and re-creation of funds and accounts, the dedication and rededication of revenue and allocation of accrued interest on dedicated revenue, and the exemption of unappropriated money from use for general governmental purposes.
Relating to the creation and re-creation of funds and accounts, the dedication and rededication of revenue and allocation of accrued interest on dedicated revenue, and the exemption of unappropriated money from use for general governmental purposes.