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MD HB244

MD HB244
Natural Resources – Vessel Transfers – Transfer–on–Death Beneficiary Designation


summary

Introduced
01/14/2026
In Committee
01/14/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Authorizing an individual who is the sole owner of a certain vessel to apply to the Department of Natural Resources to designate a beneficiary to take ownership of the vessel on the death of the owner; requiring a designated beneficiary who survives the owner of a vessel to apply to the Department for a new certificate of title for the vessel; and requiring an application for a certificate of title for a vessel to contain certain information.

AI Summary

This bill allows the sole owner of a vessel, which refers to a boat or other watercraft, to designate a beneficiary who will automatically inherit the vessel upon the owner's death. This designation, which can be indicated by "transfer-on-death" or "TOD" on the vessel's title, does not affect the owner's rights to the vessel during their lifetime and can be changed or canceled at any time without the beneficiary's consent. If the designated beneficiary survives the owner, they can obtain a new title by submitting the original title, a death certificate, proof of identity, and any applicable fees or taxes; however, if the beneficiary does not survive the owner, the vessel becomes part of the deceased owner's estate.

Committee Categories

Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (0)

No sponsors listed

Other Sponsors (1)

Environment and Transportation (House)

Last Action

Withdrawn by Sponsor (on 02/16/2026)

bill text


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