BMV rejects changes on vehicle registration regs

The Bureau of Motor Vehicle has expressed opposition to the proposed changes in the vehicle registration policy, which would have allowed owners to register their cars through mail.

In a letter to House Judiciary and Governmental Operations Committee Chair Rep. Dino M. Jones, BMV Commander Maj. Bertha Chong-Tudela said there is no way proposed changes can be implemented now.

Ms. Chong-Tudela said there is currently not enough manpower within the BMV office to handle the proposed procedural changes, noting that the bureau has only 10 personnel — four for registration section, five for driver’s license section and herself.

She added that there are no extra computers on hand for back up in case one breaks down, which may also hamper the smooth implementation of the proposed changes contained in House Bill 12-252.

“There are not enough funds for BMV to operate. Everything has to be cut down due to austerity measures. Should the law be passed, postage cost at 34 cents multiplied by 20,000 vehicles cost $6,800,” she told Mr. Jones.

Also, Ms. Tudela-Chong that annual registration of motor vehicles has been the usual practice anywhere in the world, thereby, BMV’s failure to notify car owners of their expiration date should not be a major issue.

“Everybody who owns a vehicle should know this because it says so on the vehicle registration card. An expiration date is indicated on the registration card so that should not be an excuse,” she pointed out.

Ms. Chong- Tudela also mentioned that another problem with registration by mail is when the registered owners are no longer on island and when the persons having custody of the vehicle do not have legal documents.

Earlier, Rota Mayor Benjamin T. Manglona threw his support to the proposed changes in the current procedures on car registration renewal, citing inevitable need to cut government red tape.

“We agree that it would most likely be faster, less expensive and more efficient for motor vehicle registration renewals to be handled by mail,” Mr. Manglona said.

HB 12-252 also calls for the establishment of a procedure for providing written notice of the need to renew not later than 60 days before the car registration expires.

The bill said the Bureau of Motor Vehicle has not been providing notice to car owners on the forthcoming expiration of their vehicle’s registration.

This results to many persons who desire to comply with the registration law being subject to substantial fines and penalties when their annual registrations lapse.

HB 12-252 said it would be faster, less expensive and more efficient for the motor vehicle registration renewals to be handled by mail, adding that his bill aims to provide for fair and efficient motor vehicle registration renewal procedure.

It also guarantees that every motor vehicle owner should be responsible for renewal of their car registration on or before the last day of the month in which registration is required.

All privately-owned vehicles shall be inspected at the time of registration, which may be suspended due to noncompliance with safety procedures and requirements.