Texas House Bill HB4834

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the issuance of specialty license plates to fund programs supporting victims of sexual assault.

Impact

Financially, the bill outlines that the funds generated from the sale of these specialty license plates will directly benefit the sexual assault program fund as established in the Government Code. After deducting necessary administrative costs incurred by the department in processing these license plates, the remaining proceeds will be allocated to initiatives aimed at helping victims, thus enhancing the state's capacity to provide critical support services.

Summary

House Bill 4834 aims to create specialty license plates specifically designed to raise funds for programs supporting victims of sexual assault in Texas. The bill mandates the design and issuance of these plates by the relevant state department, prominently featuring the phrase 'Speak up. Speak out.' alongside an emblematic blue ribbon. These elements are intended to not only provide visual support for the cause but also to raise awareness around the issue of sexual assault within the community.

Contention

While the bill itself does not seem to ignite significant contention, it reflects a broader conversation about the effectiveness and practicality of specialty license plates as a means of fundraising for social causes. Advocates for the bill highlight the importance of raising public awareness about sexual assault, while some may question whether licensing fees and plate purchases are a sustainable funding source. Nevertheless, the bill is positioned as a positive step toward supporting vulnerable populations and fostering a culture of awareness and engagement against sexual assault.