Iowa House Bill HF2185

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/24
• Engrossed: 2/21/24
• Enrolled: 4/19/24
• Passed: 4/19/24

Caption

A bill for an act relating to personal information of the previous owner of a motor vehicle. (Formerly HSB 517.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.

Impact

If enacted, HF2185 will modify sections of the Iowa Code concerning vehicle registration and titling. The changes will potentially have implications for how personal information is managed by county treasurers and the Department of Transportation, requiring them to maintain detailed records of vehicle ownership histories accessible for at least three years. This added layer of accountability in record-keeping can affect how individuals buy and sell vehicles and may enhance consumer protections regarding ownership disputes.

Summary

House File 2185, an act regarding the personal information of the previous owners of motor vehicles, aims to amend existing regulations to ensure that certain ownership information is maintained on the certificate of title and in the records system for vehicle registration in Iowa. The bill emphasizes the inclusion of the previous owner's name and address along with other relevant details on the title certificate, which will enhance transparency in ownership transfer. It establishes a framework for the duration of time information shall be stored and accessible, thus aiming to fortify the trust in vehicle ownership records across the state.

Sentiment

The legislative sentiment around HF2185 appears to be largely supportive among those in favor of strengthening personal accountability and transparency in auto ownership processes. Supporters argue that the bill could help prevent fraud and inaccuracies in vehicle titles, thereby enhancing consumer confidence. However, some concerns were raised regarding privacy implications, particularly about how the previous owner's information will be handled, with critics highlighting potential risks to individual privacy.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the legislation include the balance between transparency in vehicle title transfers and the protection of personal information. Opponents of HF2185 may argue that collecting and retaining the previous owner's personal information could lead to privacy breaches. This concern emphasizes the ongoing debate in legislative circles about governing the use and protection of personal data in various contexts, highlighting the delicate balance that needs to be struck between transparency in the public sphere and the right to privacy.