The bill, HB 649-FN, introduces new responsibilities for motorists and dealers regarding vehicle maintenance and safety to enhance public safety on the roads. It establishes RSA 266:8-b, which prohibits the operation of unsafe vehicles with specific mechanical and structural defects, such as faulty brakes or compromised integrity. Law enforcement is empowered to conduct limited safety inspections and issue defective equipment tags, requiring vehicle owners to rectify issues within a designated timeframe. A $60 fine is imposed for violations, and immediate suspension of vehicle registration is permitted if a vehicle poses an immediate hazard. Additionally, the bill amends RSA 358-F to require used vehicle dealers to conduct safety inspections upon customer request and disclose any defects, classifying non-compliance as an unfair or deceptive practice.

The bill also makes significant amendments to motor vehicle registration laws in New Hampshire. It prohibits dealers from issuing temporary plates or registration certificates for vehicles that do not meet safety requirements and allows residents with limited access to town clerks to apply for a 20-day registration, contingent on a signed statement affirming the vehicle's safety. A fee of $20 is established for this temporary registration, limited to three per vehicle within a year. Furthermore, the bill repeals and reenacts RSA 261:40-b to create a Rental Fleet Passenger Vehicle Registration Program for rental car companies with 50 or more vehicles, allowing them to register their fleet collectively and receive two-year registration stickers. The division of motor vehicles will adopt rules for this program, which is set to take effect upon passage on May 18, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 125-S:2, 266:18-d, 266:59-a, 266:60, 266:13, 266:115, 358-F:2, 358-F:4
As Amended by the Senate: 261:56, 261:57, 261:141, 261:153, 358-F:4
As Amended by the Senate (2nd): 358-F:2, 358-F:4, 261:56, 261:57
Version adopted by both bodies: 358-F:2, 358-F:4, 261:56, 261:57
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 358-F:2, 358-F:4, 261:56, 261:57