North Dakota legislators propose bill for nonlegal vehicle title requests

The North Dakota State Legislature has introduced House Bill 1480, a measure aimed at streamlining the process for obtaining a certificate of title for motor vehicles that have not been registered for over 25 years. Proposed on February 17, 2025, the bill addresses a growing concern for individuals who may possess older vehicles but lack the legal title, often hindering their ability to sell or use these vehicles.

Under the provisions of House Bill 1480, individuals who are not the legal owners of a vehicle can request a title by following a specific process. This includes sending a certified letter to the last-known address of the vehicle's registered owner and publishing a notice in a local newspaper twice within a 30-day period. If there is no response from the legal owner within that timeframe, the individual can then provide proof of compliance to the Department of Transportation, which would issue a new title.

This bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and community members, particularly regarding the implications for vehicle ownership and the potential for increased vehicle transactions in the state. Supporters argue that it will help clear up title issues for many residents, making it easier to reclaim ownership of long-abandoned vehicles. However, some lawmakers have raised concerns about the potential for misuse, fearing that it could lead to disputes over vehicle ownership and complicate the legal landscape surrounding motor vehicle titles.

The economic implications of House Bill 1480 could be significant. By facilitating the transfer of titles for older vehicles, it may encourage more sales and registrations, thereby boosting local economies. Additionally, it could help reduce the number of unregistered vehicles on the roads, promoting better compliance with state regulations.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its supporters will need to address the concerns raised by opponents to ensure that the final version balances accessibility with protections for legal owners. The outcome of this bill could reshape how North Dakotans manage vehicle ownership and registration, making it a noteworthy development for residents and lawmakers alike.