ME LD918

Allows qualifying religious organizations to self-insure for automobile liability coverage instead of purchasing traditional auto insurance, with the Secretary of State issuing certificates of self-insurance

Qualifying organizations must be recognized by the Social Security Administration under IRS Section 1402(g), operate 5+ motor vehicles in Maine, share a common belief in mutual financial assistance, and have a 2-year clean financial responsibility record

Requires an irrevocable letter of credit or deposit of $250,000 for 5-10 vehicles, with an additional $2,500 required per vehicle beyond 10

Excludes commercial vehicles over 26,001 pounds, emergency vehicles, for-hire freight or passenger vehicles, school buses, and rental vehicles from the self-insurance option

Secretary of State may terminate self-insurance authorization if the organization fails to meet requirements or has unsatisfied judgments for more than 30 days