This bill amends R.S. 47:508(A)(2) and enacts R.S. 47:508.1 to establish a fleet vehicle registration program administered by the Department of Public Safety, office of motor vehicles. The program allows leasing and rental companies to register as fleet owners and provides options for annual or biennial registration cycles, including proration for partial annual additions. The bill introduces new provisions for fleet license plate inventory controls, record-keeping, electronic data exchange, and audits, as well as stipulations for fees and taxes associated with fleet registration.

Key insertions include the definition of a "fleet" as a group of 250 or more vehicles and the establishment of a unique fleet identification number for registered fleet owners. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of registered fleet owners, including maintaining proof of financial responsibility and compliance with safety inspection requirements. Additionally, it allows for the issuance of unique fleet license plates that can be transferred among vehicles within the fleet, subject to reporting and audit controls. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2028, or when the necessary updates to the electronic vehicle and registration system are completed.

Statutes affected:
HB781 Original: 47:508(A)(2)
HB781 Engrossed: 47:508(A)(2)
HB781 Enrolled: 47:508(A)(2)
HB781 Act 568: 47:508(A)(2)