Texas Senate Bill SB1792

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to remedies for nonpayment of tolls for the use of toll projects; authorizing a fee; creating an offense.

Impact

The implementation of SB1792 is expected to strengthen toll collection efforts across Texas by providing toll project entities with clearer enforcement mechanisms. This could lead to increased revenues for the state’s toll infrastructure and help maintain and improve toll roads. The bill also introduces a system where individuals can enter payment plans if they cannot pay their tolls immediately, indicating an effort to balance enforcement with the ability of drivers to comply financially.

Summary

SB1792 aims to provide a framework for enforcing the collection of tolls on various toll projects within Texas. It introduces several remedies for dealing with nonpayment of tolls, such as allowing toll project entities to publish the names of individuals who repeatedly fail to pay tolls, creating a specific definition for habitual violators, and enabling legal actions against such violators. The bill also empowers toll project entities to refuse vehicle registrations for habitual violators and mandates that offenders could face legal penalties, including fines for persistent nonpayment.

Contention

Some concerns surrounding SB1792 involve privacy issues related to the publication of names of nonpaying vehicle owners, as well as potential impacts on individuals who may genuinely struggle to pay tolls. Opponents argue that the measures could lead to undue penalties for low-income individuals or those facing financial difficulties. The distinction between habitual violators and occasional nonpayers is also a notable point of contention among legislators, as creating a clear boundary of enforcement versus leniency remains a critical concern.