The bill establishes a new chapter, CHAPTER 3.4, titled "Electronic Registration and Titling," within Title 31 of the General Laws concerning motor vehicles. It mandates the Division of Motor Vehicles to implement electronic systems for lien, titling, and registration by July 1, 2026. This includes provisions for the electronic submission of applications for registration certificates and titles, as well as the electronic transmission of liens and lien satisfactions. Business entities will be required to participate in this electronic process starting July 1, 2027, unless exempted.

Additionally, the bill introduces a secure digital vehicle title system that will provide title holders with online access and is recognized as an official title in Rhode Island and other jurisdictions. The secure digital title system will include functions related to title re-assignments, meet applicable security requirements, and provide real-time access to motor vehicle titles and their status.

The bill also allows the Division of Motor Vehicles to assess a per-transaction fee for the use of the electronic systems, which will be consistent with market pricing for the development and maintenance of these systems. The administrator of the Division of Motor Vehicles is tasked with promulgating rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this chapter.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws related to odometer disclosures during vehicle transfers. It allows for the use of written or electronic forms to document mileage and requires that these forms be signed electronically by both the seller and buyer, eliminating the need for notarization. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
931: 31-23.2-6