The bill amends the Michigan Vehicle Code to clarify the process for acquiring a vehicle title when ownership passes by operation of law, particularly in the event of the owner's death. It establishes that the license plate assigned to the vehicle remains valid until certain conditions are met, including the transfer of ownership by the personal representative of the owner's estate or the secured party. Additionally, the owner's next of kin is allowed to renew the vehicle registration under specific conditions, such as not having renewed it more than once and ensuring the registration was not expired for an extended period prior to the owner's death.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the process for surviving spouses or heirs to apply for a title if the deceased owner did not leave other property requiring the issuance of letters under the estates code. The application must include proof of death and certification of the applicant's status as a surviving spouse or heir. The bill also sets a value limit for the vehicles eligible for title transfer, which varies by calendar year and is subject to cost-of-living adjustments based on the United States Consumer Price Index. The Bureau of Labor Statistics will certify and publish the applicable dollar amount annually.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 257.236
As Passed by the House: 257.236