Bill > HB0217

This bill amends existing law to prevent local governments, referred to as political subdivisions, from creating their own rules that hinder people from reporting stolen vehicles, vessels, or outboard motors. While generally prohibiting any restrictions or waiting periods before a theft can be reported, the bill makes a specific exception for vehicles rented under a "written rental agreement," which is defined as a contract for temporary vehicle use with a set return time and identified authorized driver. For these rental vehicles, a local government may delay a stolen vehicle report for up to 48 hours after the scheduled return time, unless the reporting party provides evidence of theft, such as unauthorized use, fraud, refusal to return, or credible information suggesting the vehicle is involved in a crime or unlikely to be returned. Local governments can also request reasonable documentation to verify ownership, the rental agreement details, and attempts to contact the renter before accepting a stolen vehicle report in these rental situations. The bill also clarifies that accepting payment after a rental vehicle's return time does not automatically prevent it from being reported as stolen.

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0217.html