Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB350

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a registry for and requiring the registration of certain unmanned teller machines; imposing a fee; providing a civil penalty.

Impact

If enacted, HB350 will amend existing financial regulations within the state's Finance Code by adding provisions specifically for UTMs. This change could significantly affect financial institutions and businesses operating these machines, as they must ensure compliance with the new registration requirements. Additionally, operators may face civil penalties for violations, ranging from $50 to $500 per infraction, with potential for cumulative penalties depending on the duration of the infraction. Each violation, including the operation of an unregistered machine, will be treated as a separate offense, increasing the imperative for compliance.

Summary

House Bill 350 introduces regulations concerning unmanned teller machines (UTMs) in Texas. The bill establishes a formal registry for these machines, requiring operators to register their UTMs with the Texas Department of Banking before they can be operated. This measure is aimed at ensuring that UTMs are accessible, properly maintained, and adhere to safety standards. The bill outlines specific requirements for registration, including application procedures and necessary details such as the machine's location and operator information, promoting transparency and accountability among operators of unmanned tellers.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be generally supportive among proponents who advocate for increased consumer protection and operational accountability for unmanned teller machines. They argue that the regulation will protect consumers from potential fraud or malfunction. However, there may be concerns from some operators regarding the additional regulatory burden and fees associated with compliance. The requirement of registration stickers for each machine adds another layer of oversight that some may view as cumbersome.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise over the definition of which machines are exempt from registration, as the bill stipulates that machines owned by financial institutions or located out-of-state are not subject to these requirements. This could create potential disparities in the operational landscape between registered and unregistered machines, leading to calls for clarification on enforcement and compliance. The financial implications of the registration fees and civil penalties could also become a significant talking point during discussions among stakeholders in the banking and financial sectors.

Companion Bills

TX SB337

Identical Relating to the establishment of a registry for and requiring the registration of certain unmanned teller machines; imposing a fee; providing a civil penalty.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2043

Relating to the regulation of earned wage access services; requiring an occupational registration; imposing fees.

TX SB1036

Relating to the regulation of residential solar retail transactions; requiring an occupational registration; authorizing fees; providing civil and administrative penalties.

TX HB28

Relating to the regulation of consumable hemp products and providing for the transfer of regulatory functions; requiring a registration; imposing fees; creating criminal offenses; providing an administrative penalty.

TX SB556

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for registration of firearms; and imposing penalties.

TX HB2046

In revenues, further providing for establishment of State Gaming Fund and net slot machine revenue distribution; providing for skill video gaming; imposing duties on the Department of Revenue; and imposing a tax and criminal and civil penalties.

TX HF2112

A bill for an act relating to the retrieval of wounded deer by use of a registered unmanned aerial vehicle, and providing penalties.

TX HB1180

Providing for the licensure or registration of tattoo artists, guest tattoo artists, tattoo establishments and temporary establishments; regulating the practice of tattooing; imposing fees; providing for inspections by Department of Health; and imposing administrative and criminal penalties.

TX HB849

In falsification and intimidation, providing for the offense of failure to comply with child abuse offender registration requirements; in sentencing, providing for registration of child abuse offenders; and imposing penalties.

TX LD1998

An Act to Authorize Registration of Certain Cash-dispensing Machines Through the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System and Registry and to Limit the Use of Certain Cash-dispensing Machines as Virtual Currency Kiosks

TX SB2952

Relating to the regulation of hemp and nonconsumable hemp products; increasing a criminal penalty; increasing a civil penalty and providing other penalties; requiring an occupational license; imposing and authorizing certain fees.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.