MO SB879

Allows insurers purchasing vehicles through claims adjustment to apply for salvage certificates of title or junking certificates when unable to obtain negotiable titles from vehicle owners.

Requires insurers or real property owners to obtain law enforcement vehicle inspection and national crime database checks before applying for title, and notify previous owners and lienholders by certified mail at least 30 days prior to application.

Director of Revenue must search state records and conduct inquiries with other states to verify previous owners and lienholders; any protesting owners or lienholders may file a petition to recover the vehicle within the 30-day notice period, which suspends title processing.

Director shall issue one of three types of titles based on vehicle condition: original certificate of title, original certificate designated as prior salvage if previously salvaged or rebuilt, or salvage/abandoned property or junking certificate.

Insurers applying for salvage titles must declare at least two written attempts to obtain ownership certificates or transfer documents, and submit proof of claims payment, delivery of letters to vehicle owner, and application fee; department issues title after 30 days if no valid lienholders object.