The bill, S.B. No. 2022, amends the Transportation Code to establish new regulations regarding the registration of motor vehicles in certain counties in Texas. Specifically, it introduces Section 502.0101, which applies to counties that border the United Mexican States and contain a municipality with a population exceeding 500,000. Under this section, county assessor-collectors may refuse to register a motor vehicle if the owner has outstanding fines, fees, or taxes that are past due, or if the owner has failed to appear in court regarding a criminal proceeding. The bill also outlines the process for confirming the identity of the vehicle owner and stipulates that information regarding past due fines expires after two years.

Additionally, the bill allows counties to impose a $20 reimbursement fee on individuals who fail to pay fines or appear in court. It provides for the waiver of this fee by a municipal court judge or justice of the peace if the defendant is found to be economically unable to pay. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles is tasked with developing a system to facilitate the implementation of these provisions, which must be operational by September 1, 2026. The bill also clarifies that it does not apply to individuals with incomes below 250% of the federal poverty guidelines and specifies that it will only affect applications for vehicle registration received after its effective date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 502.010 (Transportation Code 502)