The bill amends the Michigan Vehicle Code, specifically section 252a, to clarify the responsibilities of vehicle owners regarding abandoned vehicles. It establishes that the last titled owner is presumed responsible for abandoning a vehicle unless they can provide a record of sale, with violators facing a civil infraction and a $50 fine. The definition of "abandoned vehicle" is expanded to include vehicles left on public property for at least 48 hours or on private property without consent. The bill outlines procedures for police agencies to manage abandoned vehicles, including affixing written notices and entering information into the law enforcement information network.

Additionally, the bill modifies notification procedures for vehicle owners and secured parties, requiring the Secretary of State to send notices and maintain a public website for locating abandoned vehicles. It specifies timelines for actions related to abandoned vehicles and establishes rights for owners and secured parties to contest abandonment and associated fees through a hearing process. The bill also allows for inspections of abandoned vehicles by owners or secured parties, with fees for inspections capped at $75, and introduces provisions to waive towing and storage fees for qualifying vehicle owners. Furthermore, it changes the timeline for the Secretary of State to release a vehicle for disposition to "not later than" 45 days after it is recorded as abandoned and includes definitions for terms like "federal poverty guidelines" and "Medicaid."

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 257.252