Texas House Bill HB3754

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to waiving fees for an original commercial driver's license for veterans.

Impact

If enacted, HB3754 would significantly affect the costs associated with obtaining a commercial driver's license for veterans, thereby removing a financial hurdle that may prevent them from pursuing careers in commercial transportation. This change is expected to encourage more veterans to seek employment in a sector that offers various opportunities, particularly as the demand for commercial drivers remains high. By facilitating this process, the bill could improve job placement rates among veterans and support their reintegration into the workforce.

Summary

House Bill 3754 aims to support veterans by waiving fees associated with obtaining an original commercial driver's license (CDL) for those who have recently been honorably discharged from the United States armed forces. Specifically, the bill amends the Texas Transportation Code, allowing veterans who apply for a CDL within 365 days of their discharge to be exempt from the usual fees that accompany the application process. This legislative action recognizes the service of military personnel and offers them an incentive to transition into civilian employment more smoothly.

Contention

Although the bill primarily supports veterans, potential points of contention could arise regarding the implications for state revenue. By waiving these fees, the state may experience a short-term decrease in licensing revenue, which might be a concern for some legislative members who focus on budgetary factors. Additionally, while most discussions have highlighted the positive benefits for veterans, there may be debates about the fairness of fee waivers and whether similar provisions should be extended to other groups of applicants facing financial challenges.