HB753 Summary

• Adopts the Uniform Certificate of Title for Vessels Act, requiring all vessel and vessel trailer owners in Alabama to obtain certificates of title from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

• Establishes application procedures for certificates of title through designated agents (probate judges, county officials, and authorized dealers), with application fees of $10 plus administrative fees retained by the designated agent.

• Requires owners to apply for certificates within 20 days after a transfer of ownership or when Alabama becomes the state of principal use, with exemptions for documented vessels, foreign-documented vessels, barges, and vessels held by dealers for sale.

• Provides procedures for perfecting security interests, transferring ownership, handling title brands for hull-damaged vessels, and replacing lost or damaged certificates, with specific timelines and notification requirements.

• Mandates the Department maintain searchable files of all vessel certificates indexed by hull identification number and vessel number, and establishes civil penalties (up to $1,000) for failure to comply with title branding requirements.

• Becomes effective January 1, 2013, and amends Section 33-5-9 to require vessel registration compliance with the new certification system.