The bill S. 61 proposes significant amendments to the South Carolina Code of Laws concerning the titling and registration of watercraft and outboard motors. A key change is the elimination of the requirement for outboard motors to be titled, which simplifies the ownership transfer process. The bill also introduces a new Article 5 to Chapter 23, Title 50, establishing a framework for the registration of watercraft and outboard motors, and makes conforming changes to several sections related to temporary certificates, validation decals, and tax notices. Additionally, it outlines the procedures for transferring ownership, maintaining accurate records of liens, and handling lost or damaged titles.

Furthermore, the bill sets forth new registration requirements, mandating that owners register their vessels within thirty days of acquisition and includes penalties for late registrations. It introduces a late penalty of thirty dollars for registrations submitted after sixty days and exempts watercraft owned by volunteer rescue squads from fee requirements. The bill also emphasizes the responsibilities of the department in maintaining registration records and mandates notification to the county regarding ownership transfers. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance regulatory oversight, improve accountability, and reduce instances of theft and fraud in the boating community, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 50-23-345, 50-23-375, 12-37-3210
12/11/2024-A: 50-23-345, 50-23-375, 12-37-3210
Latest Version: 50-23-345, 50-23-375, 12-37-3210