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HB 42

RELATING TO UTILITIES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Scot Matayoshi

HB 42 streamlines reporting for unclaimed vehicles in Alabama, allowing immediate notification after towing, improving communication for owners and towing companies.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 42

Summary of HB 42: Revise Laws Related to Highways and Transportation

Bill Number: HB 42
Introduced: September 18, 2025
Status: Chapter Number Assigned
Subject: Highways and Roads
Primary Sponsors: Representative Treadaway, Denise Baum

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 42 is to amend existing laws regarding unclaimed motor vehicles in Alabama to enhance clarity and consistency in reporting procedures. The bill aims to streamline the process for individuals and entities that tow vehicles, allowing for more immediate reporting to the Department of Revenue.

Key Provisions

  1. Immediate Reporting of Towed Vehicles:

    • The bill allows individuals in possession of a towed motor vehicle to report it as unclaimed immediately after towing, rather than within the previous five-day window.

  2. Amendments to Section 32-8-84:

    • The bill revises the definition of unclaimed motor vehicles and clarifies the responsibilities of individuals who possess such vehicles.
    • It specifies that a person must report an unclaimed vehicle using the Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicle Portal maintained by the Department of Revenue.

  3. Notification Requirements:

    • Upon reporting a vehicle as unclaimed, the individual must utilize the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) to determine the vehicle's title status and notify the owner or lienholder within five calendar days.
    • The notification must include details such as the vehicle's location, storage fees, and a warning that the vehicle will be considered abandoned if not redeemed within 30 days.

  4. Public Records and Law Enforcement Notification:

    • The Department of Revenue is required to maintain public records of reported unclaimed vehicles and notify law enforcement of such reports.

  5. Suspension of Vehicle Registration:

    • The bill allows the Department of Revenue to suspend the registration of vehicles reported stolen or converted until the vehicle is recovered or the report is found to be erroneous.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • This bill primarily affects towing companies, vehicle owners, and lienholders. It streamlines the process for towing companies, potentially reducing their liability and improving the efficiency of vehicle recovery.
    • Vehicle owners will benefit from clearer communication regarding their vehicles and the process for reclaiming them.

  • Implementation Timeline:

    • The provisions of HB 42 will become effective on October 1, 2026.

Conclusion

HB 42 seeks to modernize and clarify the laws surrounding unclaimed motor vehicles in Alabama, particularly in the context of towing. By allowing for immediate reporting and establishing clear notification requirements, the bill aims to facilitate better communication between towing companies, vehicle owners, and regulatory authorities.

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

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