Colonel Shweta urges modernization of DMV's outdated Phoenix system after 7 years of requests
April 30, 2025 | 2025 Legislative Meetings, South Carolina
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In a lively session of the South Carolina Legislative Oversight Subcommittee, the urgency for modernizing the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) took center stage. Colonel Carl Schweta, head of the DMV, passionately addressed lawmakers, emphasizing the dire need for an updated system to replace the outdated Phoenix software, which he described as a relic from the 1990s.
“Tell me which one of you would go ahead and operate a computer from the 1990s right now?” Schweta challenged, highlighting the risks of continuing to rely on a system that is not only antiquated but also increasingly prone to failure. He painted a vivid picture of the consequences: if the system were to crash, it would halt all DMV operations, leaving millions unable to access essential services.
For seven years, Schweta has been advocating for modernization, yet he expressed frustration over the slow progress. “Cost a hundred million dollars,” he noted, referring to the potential financial impact of failing to upgrade the system. He warned that the current state of the DMV could lead to significant disruptions not just for drivers but also for law enforcement and identity verification services.
Schweta's plea was underscored by a sense of urgency as he explained that only a couple of companies worldwide possess the expertise to implement the necessary upgrades. He cautioned that if another state were to contract these companies first, South Carolina could face even longer delays in modernization.
As the meeting progressed, Schweta urged lawmakers to take action, reminding them of their responsibility to their constituents. “Help me help you,” he implored, offering his personal contact information to ensure open lines of communication regarding DMV issues.
The session concluded with a sense of hope, as committee members expressed their support for Schweta's cause. With new leadership in the legislature, there is optimism that the long-awaited modernization of the DMV could finally become a reality. As Schweta left the meeting, the weight of the DMV's future rested not just on his shoulders, but on the collective will of the lawmakers present, who now have the opportunity to turn his vision into action.
“Tell me which one of you would go ahead and operate a computer from the 1990s right now?” Schweta challenged, highlighting the risks of continuing to rely on a system that is not only antiquated but also increasingly prone to failure. He painted a vivid picture of the consequences: if the system were to crash, it would halt all DMV operations, leaving millions unable to access essential services.
For seven years, Schweta has been advocating for modernization, yet he expressed frustration over the slow progress. “Cost a hundred million dollars,” he noted, referring to the potential financial impact of failing to upgrade the system. He warned that the current state of the DMV could lead to significant disruptions not just for drivers but also for law enforcement and identity verification services.
Schweta's plea was underscored by a sense of urgency as he explained that only a couple of companies worldwide possess the expertise to implement the necessary upgrades. He cautioned that if another state were to contract these companies first, South Carolina could face even longer delays in modernization.
As the meeting progressed, Schweta urged lawmakers to take action, reminding them of their responsibility to their constituents. “Help me help you,” he implored, offering his personal contact information to ensure open lines of communication regarding DMV issues.
The session concluded with a sense of hope, as committee members expressed their support for Schweta's cause. With new leadership in the legislature, there is optimism that the long-awaited modernization of the DMV could finally become a reality. As Schweta left the meeting, the weight of the DMV's future rested not just on his shoulders, but on the collective will of the lawmakers present, who now have the opportunity to turn his vision into action.
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