This bill amends existing law to create an exception to the prohibition on removing vehicle identification numbers (VINs) for vehicles manufactured prior to 1981. Specifically, it allows for the removal and reinstallation of a manufacturer's serial number or VIN when such actions are reasonably necessary for the repair or restoration of the vehicle. The bill introduces new legal language that clarifies that individuals who engage in this practice will not be subject to penalties, provided they do not know or have reason to believe that the vehicle is stolen.

The bill modifies RSA 262:7 by adding a new subsection that outlines the conditions under which the removal and reinstallation of VINs is permissible. It specifies that individuals who buy, receive, possess, sell, or dispose of a vehicle with a removed or altered VIN may be guilty of a misdemeanor unless they report the change to the police. The new provisions aim to facilitate the repair and restoration of older vehicles while maintaining safeguards against the illegal handling of stolen vehicles. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-L:2, 228:12-a