Texas Senate Bill SB1905

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to authorizing an optional county fee imposed on an applicant for a motor vehicle certificate of title.

Impact

The implementation of SB1905 has the potential to alter how counties generate revenue for local government funding, particularly in terms of supporting the salaries of county officials. By enabling counties to levy this optional fee, the legislation could provide a new source of revenue that could be used at the discretion of local governments to address specific needs or initiatives within their communities. The fee’s requirement for voter approval adds a level of local democratic involvement in the decision-making process for county funding.

Summary

Senate Bill 1905 is legislation put forth to authorize counties in Texas to impose an optional additional fee on applicants seeking a motor vehicle certificate of title. Specifically, the bill allows county commissioners' courts to set an additional fee, not exceeding $5, that must be approved by a majority of the county's qualified voters through a referendum election. This additional fee is intended to be collected during the title application process and subsequently deposited into the officers' salary fund.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1905 may include discussions regarding the fairness of imposing additional fees on residents, especially those who may already be struggling with various costs associated with vehicle ownership and registration. Critics may argue that adding a fee, even if nominal, could disproportionately affect lower-income individuals and families who depend on vehicles for transportation. Supporters of the bill, however, are likely to highlight the importance of local control and the ability for counties to fund necessary public services in a way that reflects the preferences of their residents.