SRC-JBJ H.B. 1707 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 1707 76R6226 DWS-FBy: Uher (Armbrister) Economic Development 5/3/1999 Engrossed DIGEST Currently, a person must demonstrate proof of insurance at the time of application for a motor vehicle title or registration. A person who sells motor vehicles acts as the "owner's representative" prior to sale of the vehicle when applying for title or registration. Requiring proof of insurance places some burden on state commerce in motor vehicles. Allowing the dealer to apply for title and registration on behalf of the purchaser without having to show proof of insurance to the county tax assessor-collector may allow less burden on commerce. The dealer would be required to remit the motor vehicle sales tax in a timely manner. Subsequent renewals of registration by the owner will still be subject to the proof of financial responsibility requirement. This bill will not change the requirement that every driver be able to demonstrate financial responsibility. H.B. 1707 would amend the registration requirements of certain motor vehicles by a county tax assessor-collector. PURPOSE As proposed, H.B. 1707 amends the registration requirements of certain motor vehicles by a county tax assessor-collector. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Section 502.153, Transportation Code, by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsection (j), to provide an exemption to a vehicle registered under Section 501.0234 for the requirement that certain vehicles shall submit evidence of financial responsibility with the application for registration. Makes conforming and nonsubstantive changes. SECTION 2.Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.