The bill amends West Virginia Code §17-24A-4 to facilitate the process for automobile dealers, licensed automobile auctions, motor vehicle repair facilities, and towing companies to obtain titles for abandoned or junked motor vehicles. A significant change is the removal of the requirement that the loan value of the motor vehicle must be less than $9,500, allowing these entities to apply for a certificate of title and registration regardless of the vehicle's loan value. This change aims to streamline the process for dealing with abandoned vehicles on their properties.

Additionally, the bill outlines the notification procedures that enforcement agencies must follow when taking custody of abandoned or junked vehicles, including notifying the last-known registered owner and lienholders. It specifies the timeline for notifications and the conditions under which a vehicle can be sold if it remains unclaimed. The bill also clarifies that motor vehicle repair facilities and towing companies are not classified as used motor vehicle dealers under existing definitions, ensuring they can operate under the new provisions without being subject to additional dealer regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17-24A-4
Engrossed Version: 17-24A-4
Enrolled Version: 17-24A-4