83R8244 VOO-F
By: Perry H.B. No. 2394
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to a study on the feasibility of requiring title for all
trailers, semitrailers, and travel trailers not considered
manufactured housing.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter A, Chapter 501, Transportation Code,
is amended by adding Section 501.007 to read as follows:
Sec. 501.007. STUDY ON FEASIBILITY OF TITLE BEING OBTAINED
FOR ALL TRAILERS, SEMITRAILERS, AND TRAVEL TRAILERS THAT ARE NOT
MANUFACTURED HOUSING. (a) The department shall conduct a study of
the feasibility of requiring title for each trailer, semitrailer,
or travel trailer that is not manufactured housing.
(b) In conducting the study required under this section, the
department must, in relation to all trailers, semitrailers, and
travel trailers covered by the study:
(1) determine the cost and feasibility of assigning
vehicle identification numbers;
(2) develop options for obtaining title;
(3) evaluate the processes of inspection,
verification, and assignment of vehicle identification numbers;
(4) develop recommendations for requiring the
permanent affixation of vehicle identification numbers;
(5) determine the approximate fiscal impact from theft
and evaluate options to decrease this theft; and
(6) evaluate the level of access individuals in rural
areas have to obtain title.
(c) In conducting the study, the department must use input
from local governmental entities that provide title services for
trailers, semitrailers, or travel trailers, automotive theft
experts, statewide associations representing agricultural
entities, and statewide associations of counties. The department
may use input from any other organization, as necessary.
(d) On request of the department, the comptroller shall
assist the department in conducting the study.
(e) The department shall prepare a report that contains its
study findings and makes recommendations regarding possible
legislative solutions to any problems found in the processes for
obtaining title for trailers, semitrailers, or travel trailers
covered by the study. Not later than September 1, 2014, the
department shall submit the report to the lieutenant governor, the
speaker of the house of representatives, and the presiding officer
of each legislative standing committee with primary jurisdiction
over motor vehicles.
(f) This section expires August 31, 2015.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives
a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as
provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this
Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this
Act takes effect September 1, 2013.