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RI H7355
Bill
Status
1/28/2026
Primary Sponsor
Kathleen Fogarty
Click for details
AI Summary
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Creates transfer-on-death (TOD) designation for motor vehicle titles beginning September 1, 2026, allowing owners to name beneficiaries who automatically receive the vehicle upon the owner's death without probate
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Beneficiaries have no interest in the vehicle until the owner's death, and owners may revoke or change beneficiary designations at any time without beneficiary consent
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Allows trusts to be named as TOD beneficiaries and permits multiple owners with right of survivorship to designate beneficiaries who receive the vehicle when the last owner dies
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Surviving spouses or heirs without a TOD designation may transfer title by presenting a death certificate and affidavit to DMV, bypassing probate unless fraud is suspected
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Requires DMV to create amended title forms and TOD forms by September 1, 2026, with transfer fees capped at the annual registration fee for the vehicle
Legislative Description
Allows on and after September 1, 2026, an owner of motor vehicle(s) to transfer ownership and registration of said vehicle on their death, by a certificate of title designation and requires DMV to amend title forms, to include transfer-on-death language.
Motor And Other Vehicles
Last Action
Committee recommended measure be held for further study
2/5/2026