Texas House Bill HB2929

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/26/11
• Introduced: 3/10/11
• Refer: 3/17/11
• Report Pass: 4/14/11

Caption

Relating to authorization to impose an administrative penalty on salvage vehicle dealers.

Impact

The implementation of HB 2929 would allow for a structured approach to penalizing salvage vehicle dealers, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the vehicle salvage industry in Texas. The bill specifies that the penalties can range from a minimum of $50 to a maximum of $1,000, depending on various factors such as the seriousness of the violation and the economic harm caused. This provision seeks not only to deter future violations but also to establish a fair process for addressing infractions within the industry, thereby promoting higher standards among salvage vehicle dealers.

Summary

House Bill 2929 addresses the authority of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to impose administrative penalties on salvage vehicle dealers who violate specific regulations. This bill aims to establish a regulatory framework under which these dealers can be penalized for non-compliance with the Occupations Code, specifically Chapter 2302. By doing this, the bill seeks to enhance the regulatory oversight of salvage vehicle operations, ensuring that these dealers adhere strictly to state laws and rules established under the DMV's authority.

Contention

While the bill is positioned as a necessary enhancement to regulatory processes, there may be concerns regarding its implications for salvage vehicle dealers, particularly smaller businesses that may find the penalties excessive. Proponents of the bill argue that it is essential for ensuring compliance and protecting consumers, while opponents might fear that the penalties could be disproportionate to smaller violations. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of corrective efforts, allowing dealers to stay enforcement during judicial review under specified conditions, which introduces a layer of due process in the enforcement of penalties.