Texas Senate Bill SB561

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the number of license plates to be issued for and displayed on a motor vehicle.

Impact

The enactment of SB561 will centralize the requirement for most motor vehicles to display only a single license plate, which proponents argue will simplify compliance for vehicle owners, reduce manufacturing and administrative costs related to the creation and issuance of multiple plates, and potentially alleviate bureaucratic burdens on the Department of Transportation. This could also lead to a decrease in the number of vehicles on the road with improperly displayed or missing plates, enhancing the ability to monitor vehicle compliance through law enforcement.

Summary

SB561 is a legislative bill introduced in Texas aimed at modifying the existing regulations governing the issuance and display of license plates for motor vehicles. The bill specifies that the Texas Department of Transportation shall only issue one license plate required for attachment at the rear of the vehicle. This change signifies a departure from the current practice where vehicles are typically issued two license plates, one for the front and one for the rear, providing a simplified approach to vehicle registration and compliance for motorists in Texas.

Contention

While the bill is anticipated to promote efficiency, it may also face opposition from certain sectors. Critics might argue that such a change could complicate the tracking of vehicles, as having two plates aids in identification. Additionally, concerns might arise around the potential impact on local law enforcement practices that rely on multiple plates for effective monitoring of vehicle legality. The legislation could also raise issues regarding the implications for certain vehicle types, such as commercial or specialty vehicles that traditionally display two license plates.