Senate Bill 467 proposes amendments to the existing law regarding local vehicle registration fees, commonly known as wheel taxes. Under the current law, municipalities and counties can impose these fees through an ordinance without requiring voter approval. The bill introduces a new requirement that mandates a referendum at a regularly scheduled election for any municipality or county wishing to impose a registration fee. The fee can only be enacted if a majority of voters approve it in the referendum. Additionally, municipalities or counties that have already imposed a registration fee prior to the bill's enactment must also seek voter approval through a referendum within a specified timeframe.
The bill amends section 341.35 (1) of the statutes to include a new subsection (1g), which outlines the referendum process. The referendum question must clearly state the proposed fee and the municipality or county involved. If the referendum is approved, the registration fee can be imposed starting four months after the vote. Conversely, if the referendum fails, the municipality or county cannot impose the fee. This legislation aims to increase local accountability and ensure that residents have a say in the imposition of vehicle registration fees.
Statutes affected: Bill Text: 341.35(1), 341.35