HUNTER: The Texas Sunset Review Process Part II

In reviewing the various agencies the Commission examines the continual need for the agency. A review is made of duplication of policies or programs with other agencies. The review also looks at new and innovative ways to improve each agencys operations and activities. During the sunset review process the Commission holds public hearings and allows the public to provide their thoughts ideas and general perception of the agencys need. After each agency is reviewed the Commission then recommends actions to the full Texas Legislature. One of the agencies currently in the sunset review process is the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). The TxDMV was established by the Texas Legislature in 2009 with the task to serve protect and advance the citizens and industries in the state with quality motor vehicle related services. The TxDMV is one of only a handful of state agencies that raises revenue for the state. For every $1 the agency spends it returns more than $10 in state revenue. These funds are primarily used to build and maintain the states roads and bridges. The TxDMV is overseen by a nine-member governor-appointed board that is the agencys policy-making arm. Daily operations are overseen by the agencys executive director. Each year the agency:

• Registers almost 24 million vehicles;
• Regulates vehicle dealers;
• Credentials buses and big trucks for Intrastate & Interstate Commerce;
• Issues oversize and overweight permits; and
• Awards grants to law enforcement agencies to reduce vehicle burglaries and thefts.

One program the TxDMV has implemented is the Automobile Burglary & Theft Prevention Authority (ABTPA). This program educates Texans on how to protect themselves from motor vehicle theft and awards financial grants to curtail auto theft and burglary. The division is also involved in a program that helps to prevent stolen motor vehicles from entering Mexico. If you would like to learn more about the TxDMV you can visit the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Over the coming weeks I would like to outline and present to you other state agencies currently undergoing the sunset review process. If you would like to learn more on your own about the Sunset Advisory Commission or other agencies undergoing the sunset review process go to the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission. If you have any questions regarding the Texas Historical Commission or the Sunset Review Process please dont hesitate to contact either my Capitol or District office. My offices are available at any time to assist with questions concerns or comments. (Capitol Office: 512-463-0672; District Office: 361-949-4603). Texas State Representative Todd Hunter represents Texas House District 32 covering Aransas Calhoun Nueces (Part) and San Patricio Counties. He can be contacted attodd.hunter@house.texas.gov or at 512-463-0672 or 361-949-4603.