Texas Senate Bill SB1248

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the documentary fee charged in connection with the sale of certain recreational vehicles and boats.

Impact

The bill stipulates that while retail sellers may charge a documentary fee for document handling services, this fee must be agreed upon by both the seller and buyer and cannot exceed a reasonable maximum amount established by the finance commission. Furthermore, it mandates that this fee be distinctly itemized in sales documents, which aims to inform buyers and protect them from undisclosed charges. This reform seeks to establish a uniform approach to documentary fees across Texas, potentially affecting how dealerships and sellers present these fees in sales transactions.

Summary

SB1248, introduced in the Texas Legislature, addresses the documentary fee charged in connection with the sale of certain recreational vehicles and boats. The bill amends existing provisions in the Finance Code, specifically Section 345.251, outlining how retail sellers can impose this fee and the conditions under which it may be charged. The primary purpose of this legislation is to ensure transparency and fairness in how documentary fees are assessed and disclosed during the sale of vehicles and boats.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SB1248 is the degree of regulation it imposes on private sales and the automotive industry. Some stakeholders may argue that while transparency is essential, imposing strict limits on the documentary fee could impact the operational flexibility of sellers. Moreover, there may be discussions about whether setting a maximum fee aligns with free market principles or if it serves as a necessary consumer protection measure. The balance between seller autonomy and consumer rights is likely to be a focal point of debate in legislative conversations regarding this bill.