The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 261, aims to streamline the process of transferring motor vehicle registration upon the death of the vehicle owner. The bill repeals and replaces Section 14-16 of the general statutes, establishing that a motor vehicle registration will expire upon ownership transfer. It allows the deceased owner to designate a beneficiary in writing on the vehicle's registration certificate, who will assume ownership after the owner's death. The beneficiary must apply for a new title and registration within sixty days of the owner's death or before the end of the registration period, whichever is longer. The application must include the original registration certificate, a death certificate, proof of identity, and applicable fees. If the beneficiary fails to apply within the specified timeframe, they lose the right to ownership.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the registration will remain valid until the end of the registration period unless ownership is transferred or the vehicle is destroyed. It also allows for continued registration for immediate family members (such as siblings, parents, or spouses) upon payment of a fee, and outlines provisions for business-related vehicle transfers. The bill includes various regulatory measures to ensure compliance and penalties for violations. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 14-16