MS HB185

Expands the definition of "motor vehicle" in Mississippi law to include leased vehicles and rent-to-own vehicles, and provides specific definitions for each category.

Requires insurance companies to provide the Department of Public Safety with vehicle descriptions (including VIN and lease/rent-to-own status) and notify the department within 15 days if a liability insurance policy lapses.

Establishes a 30-day notice and cure period: if the Department of Public Safety cannot verify liability insurance exists, it must notify the vehicle owner, who then has 30 days to provide proof of insurance or face suspension of vehicle registration and driver's license.

Requires registered owners, lessees, and renters to maintain vehicle liability insurance, with violations subject to penalties under the chapter.

Requires lessees or renters who exercise the purchase option to apply to the Department of Revenue for a new title reflecting the changed ownership status.