Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4503

Caption

Relating to the proof of ownership required for the registration of certain boats.

Impact

The implications of HB 4503 are notable as they ease the bureaucratic hurdles traditionally associated with boat registration. The changes are expected to lower barriers for individuals looking to register vintage vessels that might be part of family heritage or acquired through informal channels. By reducing the need for a formal certificate of title, the bill potentially opens up boat ownership to a broader demographic, including those who have inherited boats but may lack formal documentation.

Summary

House Bill 4503 addresses the proof of ownership required for the registration of certain boats in Texas. The bill amends Section 31.036 of the Parks and Wildlife Code, introducing more flexible requirements for older vessels. Specifically, the legislation states that a certificate of title is not necessary for vessels older than 25 years if the owner provides either proof of purchase, proof of inheritance, or a written statement acknowledging that the vessel was not stolen. This change aims to simplify the registration process for older boat owners who might have difficulty obtaining a title due to various reasons, including lost documents or the absence of prior title on a vintage boat.

Contention

While the bill primarily aims to facilitate boat registration, there is a possibility of contention regarding the adequacy of the safeguards against stolen boats. Critics may argue that by allowing registration without a title, it could unintentionally create opportunities for fraudulent claims. Proponents, however, emphasize the long-standing value of vintage boats and the necessity for accommodating owners who possess legitimate claims without complete paperwork. Moving forward, the Parks and Wildlife Commission will need to implement effective rules to balance accessibility for boat owners with the need for responsible ownership verification.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1670

Relating to required boating incident reports.

TX HB2755

Relating to the minimum instruction requirement for the boater education program and the disposition and use of money received by the Parks and Wildlife Department from the boater education program.

TX SB1006

Relating to the minimum instruction requirement for the boater education program and the disposition and use of money received by the Parks and Wildlife Department from the boater education program.

TX HB4435

Relating to the registration, ownership, and operation of certain motor vehicles.

TX SB2024

Relating to the registration, ownership, and operation of certain motor vehicles.

TX SB2105

Relating to the registration of and certain other requirements relating to data brokers; providing a civil penalty and authorizing a fee.

TX SB2107

Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land.

TX HB350

Relating to the establishment of a registry for and requiring the registration of certain unmanned teller machines; imposing a fee; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB337

Relating to the establishment of a registry for and requiring the registration of certain unmanned teller machines; imposing a fee; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB3445

Relating to the oyster license moratorium program and the permanent retirement of certain commercial oyster boat licenses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.