BILL ANALYSIS

S.B. 702

By: Perry

Transportation

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Due to cost efficiencies and manufacturing changes, Texans have lacked the option to choose embossed license plates since 2009. As a matter of consumer choice, some specialty license plate customers have expressed a preference for embossed plates as opposed to the flat format currently produced. S.B. 702 seeks to fill this consumer need by allowing the private vendor contracting with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles the option to offer, source, and sell a select range of embossed plates to its customers.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

S.B. 702 amends the Transportation Code to require a contract entered into by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles with a private vendor for the marketing and sale of specialty license plates to allow for the establishment of a range of premium embossed specialty license plates to be sourced, marketed, and sold by the vendor.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2023.