legislative bulletin by Danny
Bills Set to Start Moving at Capitol
W
ith the passing of the March 15 deadline for filing new legislation, the Capitol is now settling in for the long process of moving bills through committees. But while few new bills will be filed, there will be plenty to stay on top of as various factions negotiate to alter the language (and effects) of legislation. When a legislator changes the language in a bill while in committee, the new version is known as a “committee substitute.” Sometimes these substitutes bear little relation to the legislation originally filed, so vigilance is necessary throughout the committee process. At this time of year more than any other, members are encouraged to visit the Legislative Action Center at www.txiada.com. A bill which had not even been assigned to committee by press time may have been heard, passed out of committee and considered on the floor before you receive this magazine. That said, here are a few of the bills TIADA is tracking.
Langfield TIADA DEPUTY DIRECTOR
Insurance Bills – Various
TIADA is tracking several bills that relate to auto insurance policies. These bills propose various modifications to the insurance code, including provisions relating to nameddriver-only endorsements, identifying excluded drivers, continuation of coverage, total loss payouts and more.
HB 2963 Alonzo
This bill would expand the criteria for acceptable ID types for title application. It was also referred to the house transportation committee on March 19.
HB 2859 Harless
Rep. Patricia Harless’ bill would increase the amount of money budgeted for the Clean Air Act local initiative projects related to vehicles, which would include the Drive a Clean Machine program.
SB 298 Estes
This is the TIADA bill that aims to eliminate the VTR-136 as a required form in the deal jacket. The purchaser would still be able to designate a county of title issuance if they chose, but the form would not be required. It was referred to the house transportation committee on March 19.
This legislation would allow car dealers to tow their own vehicles without being subject to the licensing requirements of a towing company. This bill was laid out before the senate transportation committee on March 6. TIADA past president Bill Dobbins (2006) and TIADA staff testified in favor of the bill. Several towing industry representatives testified against it. At press time the bill was still left pending in committee.
HB 3071 Pitts
HB 2690 - Elkins
HB 2947 Harper-Brown
In its current form, this bill is very troubling for dealers who are lien holders. It would fundamentally alter the way mechanic’s liens are dealt with in Texas, including allowing assignment of such liens. TIADA has been in touch with Chairman Pitts and we look forward to working with his office toward resolution. 16
This is the TIADA bill addressing curbstoning. The association has met with several law enforcement groups as well as agency enforcement personnel and, in response to their concerns, is currently working on simplifying the language and clarifying the intent. At press time, this bill had not yet been assigned to committee. T e x a s
D e a l e r
April 2013