Deputy registrar sunset eliminated

Of the state’s 173 deputy registrars, 72 are private corporations.

Sponsored by Rep. Randy Demmer (R-Hayfield), HF1209 would allow them to continue offering motor vehicle registration and titling transactions by eliminating a 2012 sunset date for a private corporation to be able to be appointed as a deputy registrar.

“This way they can go on and keep doing their business,” Demmer said.

Approved 128-0 by the House April 14, the bill awaits action by the Senate, where Sen. Katie Sieben (DFL-Newport) is the sponsor.

Currently the state determines the need and location for offices. The Department of Public Safety then approaches counties and cities about operating a license bureau. If each uses its right of refusal, the state appoints a private party to open the bureau. The majority of these private offices are in rural areas, each generally employing three or four people.

Supporters previously told a House division that most are family-run businesses, with the bureau portion being run at their own risk. Regardless if they are public or private, the bureaus receive no state financial assistance; they operate on filing fees associated with transaction costs.

Because of the volume of collections and sensitive data that is dealt with, these businesses must secure cash bonds and assume all liability in accordance with state rules. These businesses are generally incorporated to protect the operator’s investment. Without the repeal, many offices would likely close.