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Committee advances bill to simplify lien process for abandoned vehicles and other property
Summary
Senate Bill 373 would ease how repair shops and dealers use adjuster's liens and seek court orders to dispose of abandoned vehicles; proponents said the current process is costly and slows small-business operations, while insurers and other stakeholders asked clarifying questions about notice and service.
The Senate Business and Labor Committee advanced Senate Bill 373 after testimony from dealers, industry counsel and franchise representatives who said the current adjuster’s-lien process is costly and impractical for many low-value abandoned vehicles.
Bruce Knudson of the Montana Auto Dealers Association called SB 373 “a cleanup bill” intended to make it easier for dealers and repair shops to resolve abandoned or unclaimed vehicles that occupy lot space and create operational burdens. Craig Charlton, an attorney with Smith Law Firm who serves as general counsel for the Montana Auto Dealers Association, told the committee…
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