CT HB05459

Adopts the Uniform Certificate of Title for Vessels Act, effective January 1, 2016, establishing a statewide system for vessel title and ownership registration through the Department of Motor Vehicles

Requires vessel owners to apply for certificates of title within 20 days of transfer of ownership or when Connecticut becomes the state of principal use, with exemptions for documented vessels, foreign-documented vessels, barges, and vessels under 19.5 feet

Establishes procedures for perfecting security interests in vessels by delivery of applications to the Department of Motor Vehicles, including creation of electronic and written certificates of title

Provides mechanisms for transferring vessel ownership, releasing security interests, and handling transfers by operation of law (death, divorce, bankruptcy, etc.) with specific filing requirements and timelines

Sets fees for various title and security interest transactions ranging from $10 to $25 per filing, with penalties for late filing, and authorizes the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to prescribe regulations and forms for implementation