Senate Bill No. 261 amends Section 14-16 of the general statutes to facilitate the transfer of motor vehicle registration upon the death of the vehicle owner. The bill introduces a new provision allowing the vehicle owner to designate a beneficiary who will inherit ownership of the vehicle after the owner's death. The designated beneficiary must apply for a new certificate of title and registration within sixty days of the owner's death or by the end of the registration period, whichever is longer. The application process requires the submission of the original registration certificate, a death certificate, proof of identity, and applicable fees. If the beneficiary fails to apply within the specified timeframe, they will lose their right to ownership under this provision.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that vehicle registration remains valid until the end of the registration period unless ownership is transferred. It also specifies that if the vehicle is transferred to a close relative (brother, sister, father, mother, child, or spouse), the registration can continue until the end of the registration period or until ownership is transferred to another party. The bill includes various provisions for transferring vehicle registrations in different scenarios, such as business reorganizations and leased vehicles, while ensuring that the rights of lienholders are respected. The effective date for this bill is set for October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 14-16
JUD Joint Favorable: 14-16
File No. 645: 14-16