Committee advances bill to give tax collectors stronger enforcement power over driving schools

Representative Blanco presented House Bill 953, which the sponsor said strengthens regulatory oversight of commercial driving schools by authorizing county tax collectors to enforce statutory provisions and conduct inspections similar to tag agencies. Blanco said county tax collectors already serve as DHSMV agents for vehicle registration and licensing tasks and that adding oversight of driving schools fits within normal operations.

When asked about the physical and administrative impact on the department, the sponsor cited Miami-Dade Tax Collector Daniel Fernandez as an example and said local tax collectors could absorb inspections into regular operations; Blanco also said he had discussed the measure with Executive Director Kerner, who supports the approach at the state level.

Public testimony included Carlos San Jose of Corcoran Partners and a waiver of support from the Miami-Dade Tax Collector's Office. With no debate, the committee closed and reported HB 953 favorably.