Mississippi Senate Bill SB2395

Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/24
• Refer: 2/14/24
• Failed: 3/5/24

Caption

Motor vehicles; require proof of liability insurance before license tag or decal may be issued or renewed.

Impact

The implementation of SB2395 would bring significant changes to the process of obtaining vehicle tags in Mississippi. Currently, individuals can renew their tags without proof of insurance, but under this bill, insurance verification will be a prerequisite. This could tighten vehicle compliance with existing motor vehicle laws and enhance road safety. Furthermore, by ensuring that all drivers have liability insurance, the bill aims to reduce the incidence of uninsured motorists, which can lead to higher costs for all road users due to increased insurance premiums absorbed by insured drivers.

Summary

Senate Bill 2395 seeks to amend Section 27-19-43 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, specifically focusing on the issuance and renewal of motor vehicle license tags and decals. The bill mandates that no license tag or decal shall be issued or renewed unless the vehicle owner or operator provides proof of coverage under a motor vehicle liability policy. This new requirement aims to ensure that all motor vehicles on the road are adequately insured, thereby potentially reducing financial burdens associated with uninsured accidents.

Contention

Some points of contention revolve around the additional bureaucratic requirements this bill may impose on vehicle owners. Critics may argue that enforcing proof of insurance could create barriers for some individuals, particularly those facing financial hardships. Additionally, there could be concerns regarding how effectively the requirements will be enforced, including the potential for increased penalties for non-compliance, and whether the added fees associated with these changes would disproportionately affect low-income residents. Supporters contend that the benefits of ensuring road safety and reducing the financial risk associated with uninsured drivers far outweigh these concerns.