House Bill No. by Representative Melerine aims to modernize Louisiana's motor vehicle titling and registration process by introducing a secure electronic system for vehicle titles and registrations. The bill allows the Department of Public Safety and Corrections to implement a digital vehicle title system that provides a fully paperless option for title holders, including online access to title information and compliance with security regulations. It establishes that these secure digital titles will be legally recognized for all motor vehicle transactions and can serve as evidence in legal proceedings. The bill also mandates the development of a system for electronic lien recordation and title information, requiring lienholders to process electronic lien releases promptly.

Furthermore, the legislation mandates that all applications for registration submitted by licensed motor vehicle dealers utilize electronic signatures and records, ensuring these documents hold the same legal standing as traditional paper documents. It includes provisions to protect licensed dealers from civil liability when using the approved electronic systems in good faith, while clarifying that this immunity does not apply in cases of intentional misconduct or gross negligence. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline the motor vehicle registration process, enhance security, and facilitate the use of electronic records and signatures in Louisiana.

Statutes affected:
HB885 Original: