Relating to service charges for certain renewals of driver's licenses and personal identification certificates.
Impact
The bill's implications extend to the procedures and costs associated with renewing driver's licenses and personal identification certificates in Texas. By instituting a service charge for in-person renewals, it incentivizes applicants to utilize online or mail-in services, which could lead to a decrease in in-person visits to Department of Public Safety offices. Consequently, this may result in improved service efficiency and quicker processing times for those who choose alternative renewal methods, as it might reduce crowds and wait times at facilities.
Summary
Senate Bill 1634 amends the Transportation Code by adding a provision concerning service charges for certain renewals of driver's licenses and personal identification certificates. It mandates that the Texas Department of Public Safety impose a $5 service charge for each in-person application for license or identification renewal if the applicant is eligible for renewal through alternative methods such as mail, telephone, or electronic means. This approach is intended to encourage the use of more efficient methods of renewal while generating a small additional revenue stream for processing in-person applications.
Contention
There may be potential contention regarding the imposition of this service charge. Opponents could argue that any additional fee, however small, may disproportionately affect individuals with limited financial resources who rely on in-person services due to lack of access to technology or reliable mail services. Furthermore, questions may arise concerning transparency and the use of the revenue generated from this service charge, with calls for accountability regarding its allocation within the state's operational budget.
Last_action
The last recorded action on SB1634 was on April 20, 2009, when the Senate Committee printed and distributed the committee report, indicating that the bill was moving through the legislative process.
Relating to making certain voluntary contributions when applying for a driver's license, commercial driver's license, or personal identification certificate.
Relating to procedures for the issuance of personal identification certificates to certain persons 65 years of age or older whose driver's licenses are surrendered.
Relating to certain agreements entered into with the Department of Public Safety for the issuance of renewal and duplicate driver's licenses and other identification certificate services, including voter registration services; increasing the amount of a fee.
Relating to the issuance of a driver's license or personal identification certificate to certain individuals and the use of the identification fee exemption account to fund the fee waivers for those individuals.
Relating to the requirements for the renewal of a driver's license, personal identification certificate, commercial driver's license, or commercial learner's permit for a sex offender.
Relating to procedures for the issuance of a personal identification certificate to certain persons 70 years of age or older whose driver's license is surrendered.