Subcommittee approves extending temporary plate use from 5 to 30 days

The subcommittee reported Senate Bill 440, a measure carried for Senator Bagby, by a recorded vote of 9 to 0. The bill would extend from five to 30 days the period during which a vehicle owner may use license plates from one of their vehicles on another vehicle owned or operated by that person or on a dealer‑owned vehicle while that vehicle is under repair or being used for demonstration.

William Childress, who identified himself as representing the Independent Automobile Dealers Association, told the panel the association "strongly support[s] the bill." He said the change would be helpful for dealers and vehicle owners during repair or demonstration periods.

There was no recorded opposition during the hearing and no virtual opponents signed up. A member moved to report the bill and a second was given before the clerk opened and closed the roll and announced the unanimous vote.

The bill's proponents said the change is procedural and intended to provide dealers and private owners with greater flexibility while vehicles are being serviced or shown. The measure will proceed according to Senate rules for bills reported out of subcommittee.