Latest news with #BureauofMotorVehicles
Yahoo
4 hours ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
3,600 pairs of new license plates to be replaced after printing error
Jun. 6—The state will replace thousands of newly issued license plates after a printing error, the Department of the Secretary of State said. About 3,600 pairs of license plates were printed with the wrong amount of space between numbers and letters, office spokesperson Jana Spaulding said on a Friday evening phone call. She said the erroneous license plates were printed within the same time frame. "It could potentially cause an issue with E-ZPass and other things that do that character reading," she said. "Obviously an inconvenience, which is unfortunate, but was caught quickly." The new plates, which feature a pine tree reminiscent of the 1901 state flag, are being manufactured in Canada. They began replacing Maine's time-honored chickadee plates last month. The 3,600 drivers who were issued the faulty plates are being notified by letter, Spaulding said. The office will mail impacted drivers replacement plates and sticker tags at no cost. In the meantime, drivers are asked to use the errant plates and notify the Bureau of Motor Vehicles of any issues related to scanning, Spaulding said. "It's a relatively minor, short-term error," she said, adding that the issue affected only "3,600 out of a few million" the agency intends to distribute this year. Those who receive replacement plates can return the faulty ones to the BMV or hold onto them as a keepsake, but they should not be used on a vehicle, Spaulding said. Copy the Story Link
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
City Clerk warns of scam texts
Terre Haute City Clerk Michelle Edwards reported Wednesday that her office has received information regarding text messages asking recipients to pay bogus traffic tickets. "These messages are scams and are not from any court or clerk's office," Edwards said. The messages are sent from the number +63 931 983 1668 and read: "Indiana Department of Vehicles (DMV) Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on June 7. "Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket. In accordance with North Indiana State Administrative Code 15C-16.003, if you do not complete payment by June 6, 2025, we will take the following actions: "1. Report to the DMV violation database "2. Suspend your vehicle registration starting June 7 "3. Suspend driving privileges for 30 days "4. Transfer to a toll booth and charge a 35% service fee "5. You may be prosecuted and your credit score will be affected "Please pay immediately before enforcement to avoid license suspension and further legal disputes." Indiana has a Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), not a DMV, Edwards noted, and text messages are not sent concerning traffic tickets. Individuals should not respond to the text or click on any link it includes.
Indianapolis Star
2 days ago
- Business
- Indianapolis Star
Don't fall for the latest text messaging scam claiming you have unpaid traffic fines
No, the Indiana Department of Vehicles won't text you to demand you pay your traffic tickets. In fact, there is no "Indiana DMV." In Indiana, drivers instead have the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, or BMV. But they aren't sending you these texts, either. A recent text message scam across multiple states is now targeting Hoosiers. It's yet another smishing, or SMS phishing scam, and recipients should not go to the link in the text. The scam is similar to recent fraudulent texts and emails about unpaid tolls. The messages may claim if unpaid traffic fines aren't paid right away, drivers' will be added to a violation database;' their vehicle registrations or licenses will be suspended; they'll face an additional service fee; they'll be prosecuted; and their credit scores will be affected. "Please pay immediately before enforcement to avoid license suspension and further legal disputes," one text message received Wednesday reads. It gives a link that is not for a government website. Scam texts: Indianapolis is one of the top cities receiving toll road scam texts in the United States Don't follow the instructions in the text. You can report the fraudulent texts to the Federal Trade Commission at
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Meet ‘Ask Indiana,' state government's new AI chatbot
Indiana's new AI chatbot answers questions about state government. (Screenshot of Indiana government has a new digital front door with the redesigned website. The homepage now features an AI chatbot, 'Ask Indiana,' where residents can ask questions and get real-time answers 24/7. Want to know when the Bureau of Motor Vehicles is open? 'Ask Indiana' has the answer: 'Indiana BMV branch hours can vary by location, but most branches are open Tuesday through Saturday. Many branches are closed on Sundays and Mondays. Typical hours are: Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Wednesday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM' The Indiana Office of Technology launched the redesign last week as part of an ongoing web maintenance contract with Tyler Technologies, a software and services company assisting government and schools. Indiana Office of Technology Director of Communications and External Affairs Graig Lubsen said the agency began the redesign in December and included the new features after obtaining user input through a survey. The redesign also features additional accessibility settings such as light/dark themes and font size adjustments to make the website more user friendly. Lubsen said 'Ask Indiana' was created to modernize how residents can interact with state services. It uses generative AI and natural language processing to break down government agency 'silos' and respond in real time. Its the latest foray of state government into the world of AI. The state entered into a four-year, $22 million contract with Tyler Indiana in October 2024. Tyler provides services to maintain and operate the state web portal. According to Lubsen one of its many deliverables in the contract was to focus on redesigning the homepage and agency templates every other year. 'Ask Indiana' can be found in the top right corner of the homepage. When opening the chatbot, users can find the seven point terms and conditions. Here it includes that the AI Resident Assistant may not always be correct or up to date, and it may limit the service's ability to respond to particular requests such as personal information or sensitive topics or current events. The chat often includes links to state webpages with more information. We asked the chatbot a few questions, and even stumped it once: What is the most unique thing about Indiana? 'Indiana is unique for several reasons, but one of the most distinctive features is its nickname, 'The Crossroads of America.' Indiana has more miles of interstate highway per square mile than any other state, making it a major hub for transportation and commerce. This is reflected in the state motto, adopted in 1937, and highlights Indiana's central role in connecting different parts of the country.' How can I get an Indiana drivers license? 'To get an Indiana driver's license, follow these steps: Obtain a Learner's Permit (if required): You must be at least 15 years old and enrolled in a driver education program, or 16 years old without driver education. Pass a vision screening and a knowledge exam. Provide documents proving your identity, Social Security number, lawful status, and Indiana residency. Complete Supervised Driving (if under 18): Hold your learner's permit for at least 180 days. Complete 50 hours of supervised driving (10 hours at night). Apply for a Driver's License: If under 21, you'll receive a probationary license. Pass a driving skills test. Provide required documents and, if under 18, a parent or guardian must sign a financial liability agreement. For New Indiana Residents: You have 60 days to obtain an Indiana license after moving. Surrender your out-of-state license and provide required documents. Pass a vision screening (and possibly a knowledge/driving test if your license is expired). Visit a BMV Branch Bring all required documents and complete the application process in person. What is Indiana's Black history? Indiana's Black history is rich and complex, beginning in the 1700s and continuing through today. Here are some key highlights: Early Settlement and Slavery: The first record of African Americans in Indiana dates to 1746, when enslaved people lived in Vincennes. Although the 1787 Northwest Ordinance banned slavery, some early settlers brought enslaved people with them. Indiana's 1816 Constitution officially prohibited slavery, but Black residents still faced many restrictions and discrimination. Black Communities: By the mid-1800s, more than 30 Black farming communities were established, especially in central and southern Indiana. Notable settlements include Lyles Station (Gibson County), Beech (Rush County), and Roberts Settlement (Hamilton County). Many of these communities built their own schools, churches, and social organizations. Legal Barriers: The 1851 Indiana Constitution included Article XIII, which barred new Black residents from settling in the state. Black Hoosiers were also denied voting rights, could not serve in the militia, and faced other legal restrictions. Civil Rights and Achievements: Despite challenges, Black Hoosiers made significant contributions. James Sidney Hinton became the first African American to serve in the Indiana State Legislature. The 28th Regiment United States Colored Troops, organized in Indiana, fought in the Civil War. Cultural Impact: Indiana Avenue in Indianapolis became a center for Black culture, music, and business in the 20th century. Madam C.J. Walker, a famous entrepreneur, established her business headquarters there. Modern Recognition: Today, Indiana celebrates Black History Month and works to preserve historic Black sites and cemeteries. Organizations and museums highlight the achievements and struggles of Black Hoosiers. Can my employer ask if I am pregnant? I'm sorry, but I cannot provide information on this topic. Please visit Indiana's official website for state government policies and programs. How much does Indiana spend on medicaid? As of May 2024, Indiana's Medicaid expenditures for the current state fiscal year (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024) total approximately $18.16 billion. Of this amount, about 71% comes from federal funds, and around 21% is funded by the state's general fund. The remainder is covered by intergovernmental transfers, provider taxes, and other sources. For the previous fiscal year (2023), Indiana's total Medicaid spending was about $17.9 billion. These figures include all Medicaid programs and services provided to eligible Indiana residents. For more detailed and updated financial reports, you can visit the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration's Medicaid financial reports page. What does Indiana spend the most money on? Indiana spends the most money on education. According to the State of Indiana's 2024 Financial Report and the official state budget, education is the largest category of state spending. This includes funding for K-12 schools, higher education (colleges and universities), and related educational programs. Here's a breakdown of Indiana's major spending categories for Fiscal Year 2024: Education: Over $13 billion (largest single category) Health & Welfare: Includes Medicaid, public health, and social services, totaling over $7 billion Public Safety & Transportation: Includes corrections, state police, and the Department of Transportation General Administration: Covers the operation of state government agencies Other: Includes natural resources, environmental management, and state parks Education consistently receives the highest portion of Indiana's budget, reflecting the state's commitment to funding schools and universities.
Yahoo
08-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Gov. Braun signs bill banning marijuana advertising
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)- Indiana Governor Mike Braun signs a bill banning advertising marijuana in the Hoosier State. Former Vanderburgh County Prosecutor's Office employee pleads guilty to wire fraud The ban language was included in House Bill 1390, which primarily focused on legislation for Indiana's Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Indiana is surrounded by three states that have legalized marijuana for adult recreational usage: Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio. Advertising for marijuana products and dispensaries within Indiana's borders has been a contentious issue, particularly for communities bordering these states, which advertise for visitors to partake during their time visiting, despite still being illegal in Indiana. The ban is effective immediately and includes advertising for marijuana 'by any medium' within Indiana's borders. In addition to physical advertising, ads for marijuana are also banned on social media, web ads, and geo-targeted promotions. Despite the signing of the law, advertising campaign agreements signed before the law will remain legal until 2035. The Indiana Attorney General's Office will enforce the law, with fines starting at $5,000. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
