Texas House Bill HB2186

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/15/09
• Voted on by House: 4/22/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/11/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/21/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/25/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the payment of a vehicle registration fee by a check drawn against insufficient funds.

Impact

The implementation of HB 2186 is significant in terms of how vehicle registration fee payments are managed at the county level. By formalizing the process of reporting checks drawn against insufficient funds, the bill seeks to facilitate law enforcement's ability to address potential violations more effectively. It clarifies the responsibilities of county officials and helps ensure that proper documentation is maintained, which could streamline administrative processes as well as enforce compliance with registration laws.

Summary

House Bill 2186 addresses the procedure for handling instances when a check drawn for the payment of vehicle registration fees is returned due to insufficient funds. The bill mandates that county assessor-collectors, upon receiving such a check, must certify the failed payment to the local sheriff, constable, or highway patrol officer after making attempts to contact the person responsible for the check. Key details that must be included in this certification are the name and address of the check writer, the vehicle's license plate number and make, and any documentation of collection attempts. This aims to create a more efficient way to handle returned checks in the context of vehicle registration fees.

Contention

While the bill primarily focuses on improving administrative processes, it may raise concerns regarding privacy and the potential for civil or criminal penalties against individuals who fail to maintain sufficient funds to cover their obligations. Some critics might argue that the bill could disproportionately affect lower-income individuals, who may frequently encounter difficulties in managing funds. Open discussions regarding implementation and its effects on different populations are likely to emerge as the bill progresses through the legislative process.