DMV Director Shweta advocates for employee salaries and modernization amid rising demands

During a recent meeting of the South Carolina Senate Finance Special Subcommittee, DMV Executive Director Kevin Shweto delivered a compelling presentation highlighting the urgent need for increased funding and modernization of the state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Shweto, who has served as director for 15 years, emphasized the challenges faced by his workforce amid a significant population increase in South Carolina, which has grown from 4 million to 5.3 million residents over the past decade.

Shweto pointed out that despite the 25% rise in population, his department has not seen a corresponding increase in personnel or budget. He reported a staggering 33% annual turnover rate among DMV employees, largely due to low salaries that have not kept pace with inflation. Many employees, he noted, are forced to take second jobs to support their families, which impacts their ability to serve the public effectively.

The director underscored the complexity of the DMV's operations, which involve 444 different transactions governed by law, requiring staff to be well-versed in various legal areas, including tax and insurance law. He expressed concern that without adequate support and resources, the quality of service could decline, particularly as the state prepares for the implementation of the Real ID Act, which mandates stricter identification requirements for air travel and access to federal facilities.

Shweto also addressed the pressing need for a modernized DMV system, which currently relies on outdated technology from the 1990s. He warned that if the system fails, it could halt all DMV operations, affecting not only vehicle registration and licensing but also law enforcement access to critical information. He has been advocating for modernization funding for seven years, emphasizing that the current system's limitations could lead to significant public safety risks.

In response to questions from committee members, Shweto reiterated the importance of addressing DUI laws in South Carolina, highlighting the need for legislative reform to reduce recidivism and improve road safety. He urged lawmakers to consider the implications of their decisions on public safety and the effectiveness of the DMV.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for committee members to support the DMV's funding requests, recognizing the vital role the department plays in maintaining public safety and efficient service delivery in South Carolina. As the state continues to grow, the need for a well-resourced and modernized DMV has never been more critical.