Bill > HB167

This bill modifies Alabama's existing laws regarding unclaimed motor vehicles by updating the reporting requirements for towing companies. Specifically, the bill allows towing companies to immediately report a towed vehicle to the Department of Revenue through the Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicle Portal, instead of waiting the previous five-day period. The legislation maintains the existing definitions of unclaimed vehicles (such as vehicles left unattended for over 48 hours) but provides more flexibility in how and when these vehicles are reported. The bill requires towing companies to use the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) to determine the vehicle's title state, and to attempt to notify the vehicle's owner by certified mail or electronic confirmation within specified timeframes. If the vehicle is not reclaimed within 30 days, it may be considered abandoned and potentially sold under the Alabama Abandoned Motor Vehicle Act. The bill also preserves the Department of Revenue's ability to maintain records of unclaimed vehicles and provides protections such as suspending vehicle registration for stolen vehicles. The changes are set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and aim to streamline the process of handling unclaimed vehicles while providing clear guidelines for towing companies and vehicle owners.

Justice, Military Affairs and Security

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