Senate Bill No. 1365 amends various sections of the Government Code and Transportation Code related to vehicle registration, license plates, and inspection reports. Notably, it introduces new provisions that allow the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to refuse, cancel, suspend, or revoke a motor vehicle registration if the vehicle is deemed unsafe or improperly equipped, while also requiring the department to notify the vehicle owner and provide an opportunity to respond before taking such actions. Additionally, the bill establishes a 24-month vehicle registration period for certain passenger cars and light trucks, and modifies the fees associated with dealer's temporary license plates.

The bill also includes changes to the fees for electric vehicle registrations and dealer's license plates, specifying that the fee for a dealer's temporary license plate will be $10 for the original and free for renewals. Furthermore, it addresses fraudulent activities by dealers regarding license plates and vehicle inspection reports, allowing the department to deny access to the database of dealer-issued license plates if fraud is detected. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 502.044, Transportation Code 502.048, Transportation Code 502.360 (Transportation Code 502)
Senate Committee Report: Transportation Code 502.044, Transportation Code 502.048, Transportation Code 502.360 (Transportation Code 502)
Engrossed: Transportation Code 502.044, Transportation Code 502.048, Transportation Code 502.360 (Transportation Code 502)
House Committee Report: Transportation Code 502.044, Transportation Code 502.048, Transportation Code 502.360 (Transportation Code 502)