Vehicles: title; reference to electronic transfer of title or interest in vehicle; update. Amends secs. 233, 234, 239 & 240 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.233 et seq.).
This bill modifies existing statutes by introducing stricter measures around the transfer of vehicle titles, notably by imposing penalties for those who fail to comply with the endorsement and delivery requirements of a vehicle title. The objective behind these modifications is to enhance the integrity of vehicle registrations and ensure that subsequent ownership issues do not arise. This could potentially reduce instances of fraud related to vehicle ownership, as the updated procedures require accountability from both the seller and the buyer.
Senate Bill 137 aims to amend the Michigan Vehicle Code by updating key procedural elements related to the transfer of vehicle titles and registration. The bill addresses the way registration plates are to be handled when a registered vehicle changes ownership, specifically outlining that the plates can be transferred to immediate family members or retained by the owner for future use on another vehicle. It emphasizes the importance of following proper registration protocols to avoid legal complications during the transfer process.
A significant point of contention in discussions surrounding SB 137 is the stipulation of penalties, which include civil infractions for failing to endorse or deliver a title properly. Critics may argue that such penalties could disproportionately affect individuals unfamiliar with these processes or those attempting to comply without the benefit of legal guidance. Furthermore, the bill's enforcement mechanisms could raise questions about adequate training for state personnel responsible for processing these transactions, ensuring they can handle any arising disputes appropriately.