Relating to toll collection and enforcement by toll project entities; authorizing an administrative fee; imposing a civil penalty.
The changes introduced by HB 3314 primarily affect toll collection practices across Texas, establishing a clearer framework for how toll project entities manage unpaid tolls and the responsibilities of vehicle owners. The bill allows for greater use of automated enforcement technology, which will streamline operations and potentially increase revenue from toll roads. Moreover, it maintains that any unpaid tolls assessed before the bill's effective date will continue to be governed by the previous laws, thus preventing retroactive applications of the new rules.
House Bill 3314 seeks to amend the Transportation Code of Texas to enhance toll collection and enforcement mechanisms by allowing toll project entities to assess administrative fees for unpaid tolls and implement civil penalties for repeated non-payment. This act introduces measures for invoicing, such as sending bills via traditional mail or electronically, and provides specific guidelines regarding exemptions for emergency vehicles and conditions under which tolls are owed. It is aimed at improving the efficiency of toll collections while ensuring registered vehicle owners are appropriately notified of their payment obligations.
While many stakeholders support the bill for providing a structured approach to toll enforcement that could benefit toll revenue and infrastructure funding, concerns have been raised about the potential financial burden on drivers, particularly those unable to pay administrative fees or civil penalties. Critics argue that the introduction of added fees could disproportionately affect lower-income individuals. Furthermore, there are worries about the implications of automated enforcement technology, including issues of privacy and the risk of errors that could wrongly penalize vehicle owners.