The bill amends the Parks and Wildlife Code to modernize the definitions and requirements for certificates of number and title for vessels and outboard motors. It introduces new definitions such as "certificate of title," "electronic," and "security interest," which aim to clarify ownership documentation processes. Notably, the bill specifies that certain vessels, like ship's lifeboats and amphibious vehicles with titles issued under transportation laws, are exempt from numbering. Additionally, it reduces the timeline for new owners to apply for certificates of title from 45 days to 20 days and allows for electronic certificates of title, enhancing the efficiency of the registration process.

Further amendments include the introduction of a "transfer-by-law statement" for ownership transfers, which must contain specific information about the parties involved and the status of the title. The bill also establishes requirements for the perfection and termination of security interests in vessels, ensuring that secured parties fulfill their obligations regarding termination statements. It clarifies that security interests can only be perfected through the delivery of an application for a certificate of title to the department. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the titling and ownership transfer processes while ensuring accurate record-keeping and protecting the rights of all parties involved. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2028.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Parks and Wildlife Code 31.003, Parks and Wildlife Code 1.203, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.028, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.037, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.039, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.041, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.043, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.045, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.046, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.047, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.049, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.050, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.051, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.052, Parks and Wildlife Code 9.102, Parks and Wildlife Code 31.055 (Parks and Wildlife Code 31, Parks and Wildlife Code 1, Parks and Wildlife Code 9)