H.B. 1234 Summary

• Expands motor vehicle registration application requirements to include driver's license number, phone number, and emergency contacts in addition to existing name, occupation, and address information.

• Authorizes counties to assess a $1,000 fine against the legal or registered owner of a vehicle deemed abandoned under section 290-1, with collected fines deposited into the county's general fund.

• Requires legal or registered owners to provide proof of current motor vehicle registration and insurance coverage prior to repossessing an abandoned vehicle, and mandates payment of the $1,000 fine along with towing and storage expenses.

• Directs the Department of Transportation to establish a database by July 1, 2021 that links personal information from vehicle registrations with driver's license records, traffic citation divisions, and motor vehicle control systems.

• Takes effect July 1, 2050.