SB370 Summary

• Defines unclaimed motor vehicles as those left unattended for more than 48 hours on public roads or private property without owner consent, requiring persons in possession to report them to the Department of Revenue within 5 calendar days.

• Establishes a 30-day notice requirement for current owners and lienholders before an unclaimed vehicle becomes abandoned, with notice sent by certified mail including information about storage location, charges, and sale procedures.

• Creates procedures for selling abandoned motor vehicles at public auction, with notice published in newspapers at least 30 days prior to sale and allows owners to contest sales through the Alabama Tax Tribunal or circuit court.

• Permits purchasers of abandoned vehicles to obtain a bill of sale free and clear of all liens, with sellers required to deduct reasonable costs for repair, towing, and storage before remitting balance to the county general fund.

• Criminalizes making material false statements regarding the sale of abandoned motor vehicles as a Class C felony, with effective date of July 1, 2016.