SB137 Summary

• Establishes an online insurance verification system allowing the Department of Revenue and law enforcement to electronically verify motor vehicle liability insurance coverage in real-time rather than relying solely on paper proof of insurance.

• Requires verification of liability insurance or other financial responsibility prior to vehicle registration and re-registration, with the department able to suspend registrations for uninsured vehicles.

• Creates an advisory council of 13 members representing state agencies, insurance companies, and industry associations to develop and oversee the online verification system implementation and standards.

• Imposes penalties for operating uninsured vehicles including Class C misdemeanor charges, fines up to $200 for first violations (doubled for subsequent violations), and registration suspension with reinstatement fees of $200 for first violations and $400 for subsequent violations.

• Provides exemptions for certain vehicles including trailers, government-owned vehicles, self-insured entities, dealer inventory with blanket policies, and vehicles properly registered in other jurisdictions.