2024.02.01: PIPS BVA Success Story: UVED

Original article posted on LinkedIn by Jacob Charries, CPPO, CPPB, PIPS BVA, CPO-OK, CPM-OK.

I previously discussed the PIPS BVA concept at a high level in a post available here: https://lnkd.in/eZjwFhgH. Now, let's delve into a real-life case study where this approach was implemented and explore the project's results.

In 2016, a Pew Charitable Trusts survey revealed that Oklahoma had the highest rate of uninsured drivers, a staggering 26% of all drivers in the state. This not only caused increased premiums but also led to more hit-and-run incidents as uninsured drivers fled the scenes. To address this issue, the Oklahoma State Legislature enacted SB1459, granting law enforcement the authority to cross-reference license plate numbers in real-time with an Oklahoma Insurance Department list to verify insurance coverage. This initiative, known as the Uninsured Vehicle Enforcement Diversion (UVED) program, was to be administered by the Oklahoma District Attorneys Council (DAC), making it the first program of its kind focusing on real-time insurance tracking. While the bill established the program, the operational details were left unclear, prompting the DAC to use the PIPS BVA approach.

Facing implementation challenges, the DAC issued a solicitation utilizing PIPS BVA to identify an expert vendor capable of presenting an innovative plan. The solicitation challenged vendors to read SB1459 and explain how they could meet its requirements.

This approach enabled the DAC to identify a vendor experienced in license plate tracking cameras. The selected vendor not only had the required expertise but also proposed a unique plan at zero cost to the state. The vendor committed to supplying cameras, conducting studies on optimal placements, setting up computers for image reception (subject to DAC review before notice distribution), sending out notices, and collecting funds from individuals entering the deferment program. In return, the vendor would take a set amount from the funds collected from each incident, creating revenue for the state funded entirely by uninsured individuals—a unique approach that neither the client nor procurement had considered.
The program's success is evident. In 2018, when the program commenced, approximately 350,000 uninsured drivers were on Oklahoma's roads. This number has now dropped to 181,000, marking a 48% decrease. Oklahoma went from having the highest number of uninsured drivers to ranking 18th highest. The program generated approximately $2.8 million for the state without costing taxpayers—a rarity in government programs.

The PIPS BVA concept showcases the potential to find expert vendors, allowing them to bring innovative solutions that yield successful results and explore previously unconsidered ideas. For more information on how PIPS BVA could benefit your organization, please reach out to me or 
Civic Initiatives, and we would be delighted to discuss further!