License plate controversy erupted a week ago over the proposed, and now DOA, "I BELIEVE" specialty license plate in Fla.  And now, the South Carolina legislature is poised to direct the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles to issue the nation's first specialty license plate decorated with the image of a cross.

Who could have ever imagined a little old piece of metal could prove to have so much mettle?

Now, I'm sure most have an opinion of whether or not this is a good thing or a bad thing.  Personally, I would just like to know what organization stands to benefit financially from the revenues of the plate sales.  Perhaps no organization will benefit save for the Palmetto state itself.  Ok.  State budgets can always use additional revenue streams, right?

Here's what I predict.  The ACLU will most likely sue the State of South Carolina.  And the state will wind up spending time and resources (taxpayer dollars) defending their decision (should the plate pass).

Stay tuned.  The horse is at the barn door and he's almost out!

Until next time, stay safe behind the wheel

Jason D. King
PR & Info. Serv
AAMVA

Guest Blogger:  Alan Cockman

Six years ago, while I was Chair of AAMVA, I was in New York City with other members of the Executive Committee to attend a meeting.  I forget its purpose but I vividly remember why we chose the location.  It was to show in a small way our support for the City, which just a few months earlier had endured the tragic events of September 11, 2001.  On our first evening in town we went to the site of the World Trade Center towers, not as tourists, but to pay our respects to the victims.  My recollection is we didn’t say much, but rather each of us was left to our own thoughts.  It was a moving experience.

September 11 was the defining moment of my year as AAMVA’s Chair.  It impacted all of our actions and activities, and also in several respects changed the focus and operation of the Association.  Two weeks earlier I had presented “What’s Next?” as the theme for the year to highlight the strategic planning activities that would be accomplished by the time my year concluded at the AIC in Saskatoon.  After September 11 the phrase “What’s Next?” took on a quite different meaning for many people and it was decided to expand it to “What’s Next –Identifying our Future”.  This provided some clarification and, for the first time, emphasized the importance of identification security as a paramount issue.

Within a few days after September 11, we knew the issue of access to driver licenses and the associated issue of confirming identity were rapidly assuming a higher profile in government, the press and the general public.  We also knew unless AAMVA reacted quickly we risked the distinct possibility that the Association would loose any ability to take a leadership role in a subject where we should be recognized as a significant source of expertise.

In October at a meeting in Ottawa, we developed the strategy for addressing the issues and by January 2002 we had identified and outlined the components needed to meet the requirements of a more secure driver license.  We quickly followed this work by getting into the communication mode with an announcement at the National Press Club; visits to the Capital to brief senators and congressmen; and, a special membership meeting.  As we developed our solution over the next few months, we held further meetings to obtain advice and input from industry and each of the four AAMVA Regions.  By the time of the AIC in August, and with the approval of the membership, we were able to create a series of working groups tasked with developing various components of our solution, which eventually became the DL/ID Framework.

In retrospect, I always thought one of the successes learned from all the work carried out by numerous AAMVA members and staff, and our colleagues from industry was that we took the ‘high road’ and concentrated on developing a solution, rather than reacting to the negative environment created by some press and government representatives.  In doing so, AAMVA became recognized as the place to go for information and comment relating to driver licensing and identification issues.  Our profile and recognition increased significantly.

My involvement with AAMVA, and it was certainly true during my year as Chair, continually reminded me of the importance of teamwork, that a consensus approach can be the better way to reach a decision, and that you can usually gain more by giving a little.

Of course I gained a lot more from another attribute that AAMVA is famous for.  Namely, that it is a great place to meet colleagues and that many of those colleagues become good friends.  I am proud to be able to boast I have friends across the United States and Canada.  We often refer to ourselves as being part of the AAMVA ‘family’.  So I am looking forward to being a part of some of the family gatherings this year as we celebrate our Association’s seventy-fifth anniversary.

Congratulations, AAMVA –and all the best for the future!

Alan Cockman
(retired) Administrator, Saskatchewan Government Insurance

and

Chair of the AAMVA Board of Directors (2001-2002)

Alan Cockman is presently involved in management consulting projects in the U.S. and Canada.

From time to time I use this forum to celebrate the hard work of journalists, as well as to "set the record" straight where reporting has gone awry and ventured into sensationalism.  The way I figure it, as PR folks, we spend enough time complaining when a reporter gets the story wrong we should spend just as much time applauding when they get it right!

With that said, I am happy for this to be an occasion where I celebrate a journalist with integrity.  This time, it's Morris Jones, Washington, D.C. Bureau Chief, Sinclair Broadcasting, and host of "American Crossroads."

A few weeks ago, Morris called me and asked if someone from AAMVA could talk on camera about issues related to at-risk drivers, repeat DUI offenders and licenses for illegal aliens.  I let him know that while AAMVA is engaged in those issues, there was only a certain depth we could go to in a discussion.

Having this upfront discussion is so vital in building successful relationships with the media.  Because, as a public relations practitioner, my job is to not only put my company's story into words, but also to help the reporter write his or her story.

And I wanted AAMVA to be a part of the story.  But I didn't want the reporter to have expectations and intentions we could not meet or deliver.  That makes me, and AAMVA, look bad and gives the reporter unnecessary holes in his story to fill.

Morris listened patiently to what AAMVA could speak authoritatively about, and assured me his intent was not to place us in an uncomfortable situation or debate, but to report the facts as the experts (in this case, AAMVA) sees them.

You've heard that before right?  Famous last words.

So, Morris and I ran through a mock interview of sorts on the phone.  And collaboratively we agreed that there was truly a fit for AAMVA and its message.

The interview went well.  Morris kept his promise.  And the boss man, Neil Schuster, did a great job representing AAMVA, its membership and the issues.

Now the interview is "in the can" and on the air.  Heck, it's probably on youtube.  But to make it easier on you, here's the link to the piece that aired last weekend entitled, "Who's Behind the Wheel."

No reference to the title of this blog intended.

Let me know what you think!

Until next time, stay safe behind the wheel.

Jason D. King
VP, Public Relations & Info. Services.
AAMVA
jking@aamva.org


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For the second time in a year, the New York Times' Chris Jensen has dug into motor vehicle fraud crimes and exclaimed, "Eurkea, NMVTIS." 

Jensen has done his homework on this piece just as he did his previous articles. 

During the course of his research for this story, he spoke with me numerous times.  I can't even begin to tell you the number of emails we exchanged.  And all of his communication with me, and other affected parties, was, for nothing more, but the pursuit of the truth. 

In my opinion, he covered all the angles here and brought much-needed attention to a consumer protection system that motorists deserve. I am thrilled he continues looking to AAMVA for technical expertise in this arena.

As Jensen rightly pointed out, it was George H.W. Bush who signed the Anti-cat Theft Act into law. So let's hope the remaining states receive the support they need to fully-implement NMVTIS before someone gets the wise idea to introduce unnecessary legislation to create another motor vehicle title database like NMVTIS.

That would be tragic, when millions have already been spent to bring 60 percent of the U.S. vehicle population into the system.

Until next time, stay safe behind the wheel.

Jason D. King
VP, Public Relations and Info. Serv.
jking@aamva.org



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As AAMVA celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, it is good time to reflect on why AAMVA continues to be a successful organization. 

For me, AAMVA's successes were achieved through a unique combination of willing volunteers and a staff that is willing and able to support the needs and efforts of its membership.   In my judgment, AAMVA's greatest value is the opportunity it provides for members to interact with each other.  And, without a doubt, I believe its greatest asset is the cadre of volunteers, that come from the jurisdictional DMVs and law enforcement agencies.

During my years as a DMV administrator in North Dakota, AAMVA, and its membership, were a great source of information and support for me.  Through the network of friends and contacts that my participation in AAMVA provided, I was never more than a phone call away from sharing a concern with, or seeking an answer from, a colleague I had met at some AAMVA meeting or function.  The concept of "no need to reinvent the wheel" aptly describes AAMVA's greatest value.

Volunteers are the heart and soul of AAMVA.  They provide the knowledge, skills, interest and information that make AAMVA so valuable to its membership.  I would strongly urge all chief administrators to be actively involved in AAMVA, and provide volunteer opportunities for their staff members as well.  I had the opportunity to serve as an AAMVA volunteer for more than 25 years in a number of capacities, and found it to be some of the most professionally rewarding opportunities I ever had.

Now, as an AAMVA employee for the past two years, I have gained a renewed appreciation for the value the AAMVA leadership and staff bring to the organization.   They have a genuine desire to help DMVs and law enforcement agencies find common solutions to identified problems, promote highway safety, strive for uniformity, enhance customer service, protect the motoring public and promote a positive image of all the jurisdictional employees who work each day to deliver the best service possible.

I hope you will take some time this year to reflect on the value that AAMVA has brought to you, your organization and your staff.   Please remember that AAMVA is your organization and you have a vital role to play in its continued success.

Keith Kiser
(retired) Director, Motor Vehicle Division
Vice President Vehicle Services
AAMVA
kkiser@aamva.org

and

Past Chair of the AAMVA Board of Directors (2003-2004)

It was just one month ago when I last blogged about full 100 percent state implementation of the nation's only online, real-time vehicle fraud reduction machine:  NMVTIS.  And if you missed the blog, you should definitely listen to my two part podcast with DOJ's Jim Burch to hear where things are headed.

Now, just this month, Reader's Digest freelancer Mandy Matson gets out the magnifying glass in her latest feature story and examines vehicle safety issues with airbag deployment, theft and the connection to NMVTIS.

It's a long one and a must read.

I applaud Mandy for digging so deeply into this critical highway safety issue and fleshing out the solution to the problem:  NMVTIS.

You know, this system is really starting to sound like, excuse the 2007 terminology, a "no-brainer."  Let's hope others share those sentiments.

Until next time, stay safe behind the wheel.

Jason D. King
VP, Public Relations & Info. Serv
AAMVA
jking@aamva.org

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Write a “blog,” make it “pithy” and it can be as long or short as you want.  Those were the instructions from Jason King when he asked me to “guest blog” as a past chair of the board to commemorate AAMVA’s 75th anniversary. 

Well, I know a little bit about blogs.  They encourage you to speak your mind, right?  Pithy? Well, that sounded a little “terse,” “curt” and to the point.  That would be a challenge for me.  But, as long or short as I want, that I could deal with.  So, here goes. 

Happy Anniversary AAMVA.  That should just about do it…a blog that is pithy and just long enough. 

Ok, I just can’t help myself.  I will add a little more.  After all, I am “semi-retired” and have lots of time on my hands.  That’s why it’s now more than three weeks since Jason asked and this is due in less than a week.  The funny thing about time is that there still is never enough, even for those of us who are semi-retired. 

A context in time is where I will begin here. 

My first “association” with AAMVA was in the early 1990’s--a time before I was an administrator and a time when I only worked with the Penn. DMV from the outside looking it.  I was director of customer relations for PennDOT and the AAMVA Region 1 Conference was in Pittsburgh, PA.  A colleague of mine and I were asked to speak and to lead a session on “How to Become More Customer Focused.”  So, we did the due diligence.  We developed our presentation, converted it to overheads (no power point yet), made handouts, practiced our delivery and we were off across the PA Turnpike for the three hour trek from Harrisburg to Pittsburgh. 

Customer service; an important topic and we were expecting about 50-75 people in our session.  Not quite a “keynote,” but enough to prepare a little.  Well, I bet you are thinking that the room was packed and we really drew a crowd.  Not so much.  Five people showed up for our presentation and I think three of them were PA people who felt they had to be there. 

To say that my first impression of AAMVA was a little weak would be an understatement.  To this day, I still don’t know where everyone was.  I like to believe there was a more compelling session or maybe the Pittsburgh Pirates were playing at home (and they may have had a good year) or maybe there was a championship golf course near by (like Oakmont where the US Open was held that year).  Or maybe I just wasn't that interesting.  Now, that must have been the answer. 

That day in Pittsburgh, I had no idea that I would some day lead a DMV, work at one for 12 years, be involved in many areas of AAMVA in the region and internationally or chair the board for AAMVA.  But, as I learned more, and became engaged in AAMVA, I saw a very different association in subsequent years. 

I saw an organization change and face many challenges.  I saw a committed staff and volunteer base evolve.  I saw an industry that innovates, engages and has lots to offer.  And I witnessed many changes in the environment and customers who rely on the products and services of a DMV.  It is a lesson that first impressions are not always right.  And, it also is a lesson about roles and perspective…as roles change, perspective changes. 

My role and perspective have changed over the years and especially this past year.  Putting things in perspective, here are my anniversary “wishes” as AAMVA celebrates 75 years…. 

1. Grab the Opportunity.  AAMVA provides great opportunity for individual growth, jurisdictional involvement, networking and learning on the jurisdictional and industry sides.  Volunteer to be involved, volunteer to mentor others, show them the ropes, make friends, and develop friendships.  I always got a lot more back then I was able to give and learned a lot from many people.  Dick Flynn was my first mentor at AAMVA.  He encouraged me to get involved, and he was right. 

2. Utilize Industry’s Expertise.  The industry and the people who make up the industry have a lot to offer and those offerings are much more than their financial contributions to defray costs for conferences.   The skill, knowledge, expertise and experience of many in the private sector can be beneficial for the entire community.  A strong industry/member partnership can make this happen.

3. Look at it from all sides.  AAMVA’s Board needs to continue to be multi-disciplined, encompassing all aspects of motor vehicles, driver licensing and law enforcement.   Getting volunteers involved at the regional level can make this happen.  So many of the issues cross organizational lines and many different perspectives can lead to an even better association.

4. Stay financially viable. While it’s not all about the money, AAMVA needs to continue to be financially viable.  It has come a long way from the dark days, but it continues to face challenges as costs rise and needs multiply.  CDLIS revenues are a huge part of AAMVA’s budget. It is important for AAMVA and its jurisdictional leadership to ensure a funding stream that meets the needs of its members…but not on the backs of its members or associate members.

5. Embrace Security as the third “S.”  Security, the third “S” (joining safety and service), is most likely here to stay as this community braces for the final REAL ID regulations and looks to ensure secure products and transactions on the vehicle side as well. A broad view of motor vehicle/driver licensing’s roles in security is critical for the future.  The organization and its members have come a long way here as continuous improvements have been made to products and processes in all jurisdictions.  The improvement continuum most likely will not stop as dedicated people on the public and private side press on.  The security focus has helped transform AAMVA into a nationally recognized association making its 75th Birthday a proud one for sure.

6. Be a Strong Technical Leader.  Over the past 75 years, AAMVA too has taken a strong role in establishing common technical standards and providing expertise and technical services to the jurisdictions, especially with the AAMVAnet network.  A lot of what an association does is to foster communications between members. AAMVA has a unique facility to enable data exchange between jurisdictions in addition to the face to face idea sharing. This facility should be protected and nourished. My anniversary wish would be for this role to continue to develop and for AAMVA, with the industry, to become “technical standard setters.”  While jurisdictions have lots of expertise, AAMVA can continue to provide value in this area.

7. Scan the environment…frequently.  What are the trends, what are the issues, what are the enhancers and detractors?  What may have worked a few years ago, may not work today.  AAMVA can’t be everything to everybody.

8. Celebrate the Staff.  The staff of AAMVA is a group of hard working, talented and dedicated people.  Some out in front and many behind the scenes.  You really see this first hand when you serve as Chair of the Board and spend so much time with so many of them.  They should be recognized at every opportunity.

9. Commemorate as a Community.  Some of my best friends and many of my best times were and still are a part of some aspect of AAMVA.  It is indeed a great community, a family – a caring family.  One that has been very good to me in good times and not so good times.

Congratulations and Happy Anniversary AAMVA!  Thanks to all who made it a great association over the past 75 years! I am grateful that I was able to be a part of the history and I am looking forward to being a part of its future as well.

Betty Serian
(retired) Deputy Director, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
Safety Administration

and

Past Chair of the AAMVA Board of Directors (2002-2003)

Betty Serian is now the Principal and CEO of Betty Serian and Associates

Then it was probably AAMVA's fault.

Mea culpa.

You see most, if not all, state motor vehicle agencies, use AAMVA's private and secure network (AAMVAnet) to process customer transactions. 

To put this into perspective for you, AAMVAnet processes approximately 3 million DMV transactions per day, and, since being placed into service in 2006, has had no outages! I'm no tech expert, but I am not sure that any newtwork service provider can boast that record.  And AAMVAnet processes 99 percent of transactions in 0.1 second.  That's faster than you can say DMV.

Typical motor vehicle agency transactions across this secure and private network can include the verification of a driver's Social Security number with the Social Security Administration, the verification of a person's commercial driving history, the verification of a vehicle's title history as well as querying the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) National Driver Register (NDR).

And if you live in Arizona, this technical difficulty was a major cause for concern because it was the last date you could register to vote!  But the good news in Ariz., as told to me by the folks who work at the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division, is that ServiceArizona (AZ's online system which uses AAMVAnet) was running again at full strength by early evening.

Now, here's what happened.

On Monday, January 7, 2008, AAMVAnet technical support experienced system problems that impacted the flow of information across the AAMVAnet network and AAMVA staff began communicating and working with its members and vendors to correct the issue.

AAMVA staff worked non-stop with its vendors and its member agencies (state Departments of Motor Vehicles) to identify the cause of the slow down and pledged to continue exploring all possible solutions until this matter was resolved.

This issue was resolved by 9 p.m. ET., Monday January 7, 2008.

Further testing and analysis will continue throughout the week. AAMVA will work to produce a preliminary root cause analysis as rapidly as possible to help prevent future occurrences.

AAMVA will take all necessary measures to ensure the network continues performing at the high service level on which motor vehicle agencies, and the customers they serve, have come to depend.

Again, we apologize for any inconvenience this has caused motor vehicle agencies in helping consumers transact their DMV business.  And we appreciate your patience.

Until next time, stay safe behind the wheel.

Jason D. King
VP, Public Relations & Information Services
AAMVA
jking@aamva.org

If you've been reading this blog, you know AAMVA has been requesting assistance to help fund 100 percent state participation in the federally-mandated National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS).

You also know we've been waiting on the rules for this Act since 1992.

Well, I'm encouraged to say that based on my podcast last week with Jim Burch, U.S. DOJ (the agency with oversight for NMVTIS) things are looking up.

It also sounds like consumers have something to look forward to!

Have a listen to this dicsussion and have a safe and happy holiday.

Until next time, stay safe behind the wheel.

Jason D. King
VP, PR & Info. Serv
AAMVA
jking@aamva.org