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H 3676

An Act relative to modernizing and expanding availability of motor vehicle titling and registration services

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mark Cusack and 5 co-sponsors

Bill H 3676 modernizes vehicle titling and registration in Massachusetts, allowing electronic processes for out-of-state purchases, benefiting consumers and dealers.

Accompanied a study order, see H4724
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Bill Summary · H 3676

Summary of Bill H 3676: An Act Relative to Modernizing and Expanding Availability of Motor Vehicle Titling and Registration Services

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 3676 aims to modernize and enhance the efficiency of motor vehicle titling and registration services in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The bill seeks to facilitate electronic vehicle titling and registration, particularly in cross-border transactions, thereby improving accessibility for consumers and dealers alike.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant amendments to existing laws, particularly in Chapter 90 and Chapter 90D of the General Laws:

  1. Cross-Border Electronic Titling and Registration:

    • The registrar is authorized to enter into agreements with other states and the District of Columbia to establish a reciprocal electronic vehicle titling and registration program. This will allow individuals to title and register vehicles purchased out-of-state electronically in their home state.
  2. Participation of Motor Vehicle Dealers:

    • The registrar is prohibited from limiting any class of motor vehicle dealer from participating in the electronic vehicle registration program based solely on the volume of transactions conducted by the dealer.
  3. Waiver of Certificate of Title Issuance:

    • Upon notification of satisfaction of a security interest, the registrar may waive the issuance and mailing of the certificate of title, ensuring that owners can request a paper certificate at no fee.
  4. Timely Release of Security Interests:

    • Lienholders are required to execute and deliver a release of their security interest within specified timeframes (three to ten days) after satisfaction of the security interest. This includes provisions for electronic payments being considered cleared immediately upon receipt.
  5. Dealer Retail Process:

    • By January 1, 2026, the registrar must establish a process allowing dealers to retail vehicles for which payment has been made or for which electronic notification of satisfaction of a security interest has been received.

Affected Parties

  • Consumers: Individuals purchasing vehicles will benefit from streamlined processes for titling and registration, especially when buying from out-of-state dealers.
  • Motor Vehicle Dealers: Dealers will have greater access to electronic registration services, regardless of their transaction volume, enhancing their operational efficiency.
  • Lienholders: Financial institutions and other entities holding security interests in vehicles will have clearer guidelines and timelines for releasing those interests.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Hearing Scheduled: May 13, 2025
  • Current Status: The bill has been accompanied by a study order (H4724) as of November 17, 2025, indicating further examination before potential passage.
  • Effective Date: The act will take effect upon its passage.

Conclusion

Bill H 3676 represents a significant step towards modernizing the motor vehicle titling and registration process in Massachusetts. By facilitating electronic transactions and improving the efficiency of existing processes, the bill aims to enhance the overall experience for consumers and dealers in the automotive market.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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