Texas House Bill HB2806

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/13/11
• Voted on by House: 4/25/11
• Engrossed: 4/25/11
• Refer: 4/27/11

Caption

Relating to the marketing, hosting, and sale of specialty and personalized license plates.

Impact

The impact of HB2806 on state laws is notable as it revises the existing procedure for issuing specialty license plates. Previously, the processes were exclusively managed by state agencies. By introducing the concept of private vendors into the equation, the bill creates an avenue for potentially increased revenue generation, as a portion of the fees collected will go towards the vendor while the state also benefits from the overall revenue. This arrangement may also improve customer service due to enhanced operational capabilities of private vendors.

Summary

House Bill 2806 pertains to the marketing, hosting, and sale of specialty and personalized license plates in Texas. This bill amends several sections of the Transportation Code to enhance the operational framework under which specialty license plates are issued and managed. A significant element of HB2806 is the allowance for a private vendor to participate in the marketing and sale of these plates, asserting that it could potentially lead to an increase in revenues collected from license plate fees. This move is also intended to streamline the process, making it more efficient both for the Department of Motor Vehicles and consumers alike.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, the bill has drawn attention and contention regarding the implications of involving private entities in what had been a state-managed operation. Critics argue that this could lead to a profit-driven approach that might prioritize the vendors' interests over public welfare. Concerns have been raised specifically about how the revenues are distributed among various state funds and whether the arrangement adequately serves the public and the intended purposes of the specialty plates, such as supporting charitable causes or community programs.