Bill > S2381

This bill introduces a new provision for motor vehicle ownership transfer upon the death of the vehicle's sole owner. Under the proposed law, a vehicle owner can designate beneficiaries directly on the vehicle's certificate of title, who will assume ownership after the owner's death. The owner retains full ownership rights during their lifetime, and the beneficiaries have no rights to the vehicle until after the owner's death. The beneficiaries must apply to the vehicle registry within 60 days of the owner's death, submitting the original registration, a death certificate, proof of identity, and paying applicable fees. If beneficiaries do not apply within this 60-day window, they forfeit their right to the vehicle. If no beneficiaries survive the owner, the vehicle becomes part of the deceased's estate. The bill specifically clarifies that this transfer is not considered a testamentary (will-based) transfer and does not limit creditors' rights against the beneficiaries. Additionally, in cases of vehicle transfer, any recorded lienholders must be notified of the transfer.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2381