Tennessee House Bill HB0356

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/15/23
• Refer: 2/21/23
• Refer: 3/1/23
• Refer: 3/7/23
• Engrossed: 3/14/23
• Enrolled: 3/31/23
• Passed: 4/25/23
• Chaptered: 5/2/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-105, relative to fees for service and handling mail orders of plates and decals.

Impact

The legislation introduces set fees for this mail order service, establishing a fee of five dollars for handling mail order applications for plates, and two dollars for decals. Furthermore, it permits county clerks to adjust these fees in accordance with any applicable price increases from the United States postal service. This can provide counties with some flexibility in managing costs associated with the processing of mail orders.

Summary

House Bill 356 aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 55-4-105, which relates to the fees associated with mail orders for vehicle plates and decals. The bill establishes that county clerks must provide a mail order service for the renewal of vehicle registrations. Under this framework, registrants can apply for and receive their renewal certificates as well as plates or decals through the United States postal service, enhancing convenience for vehicle owners in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 356 appears largely positive among stakeholders, as it aims to improve the accessibility and efficiency of vehicle registration renewals. By allowing for a mail order service, the bill responds to the needs of the public, particularly in rural areas where access to county clerk offices may be limited. Supporters of the bill appreciate the modernization of the vehicle registration process, which aligns with broader trends towards digital and remote services.

Contention

Notably, while the bill seems to encounter minimal opposition, concerns regarding the adequacy of the fees set by county clerks may arise. Stakeholders might debate whether the proposed fees are sufficient to cover the costs of the service or if they might lead to excessive charges in future years. This discussion reflects ongoing tensions around government fees and the balance between convenience and affordability in public service provisions.