Bill > HB174

This bill allows individuals who solely own or co-own a motor vehicle or a vessel (like a boat) as joint tenants with right of survivorship or tenants by the entirety to designate a beneficiary who will automatically inherit the vehicle or vessel upon the owner's death. This designation, which can be indicated by "transfer-on-death" or "TOD" on the title, does not affect current ownership and can be revoked or changed by the owner at any time before their death without the beneficiary's consent. Upon the owner's death, if the designated beneficiary survives them, ownership transfers directly to the beneficiary, who then needs to apply for a new title with the relevant department, providing the original title, a death certificate, proof of identity, and any applicable taxes or fees. If the beneficiary does not survive the owner, the vehicle or vessel becomes part of the deceased owner's estate. This process does not require consideration or delivery of the title to the beneficiary for the designation to be valid and does not prevent creditors from pursuing claims against the owner's estate. The relevant government departments are authorized to charge fees and create regulations to implement these provisions, with the act taking effect on October 1, 2026.

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0174?ys=2026RS