Creates process for a vehicle to be deemed abandoned and for a salvage pool to gain salvage certificate/nonrepairable vehicle certificate for possession of total loss vehicle.
Bill Provisions
The bill authorizes a salvage pool to gain a salvage certificate or nonrepairable vehicle certificate for a vehicle of total loss in its possession under certain circumstances.
Including if insurance company requests a salvage pool authorized by insurance company or occupational licensee of DMV to take possession of total loss claim vehicle.
When the insurance company does not take ownership of the vehicle, releasing the vehicle to the registered owner and legal owner or lienholder of the vehicle.
Or if the salvage pool or occupational licensee of DMV sends 2 notices by certified mail to the registered legal owner and any lienholder of the vehicle to pick up the vehicle.
2 notices re number of days to pick up the vehicle and must be sent 2 weeks apart.
Notice informs they have to pick up the vehicle or that it will be deemed abandoned.
Bill provides that if the registered owner does not pick up the vehicle within 30 days, DMV shall assign vehicle’s certificate of title to salvage pool or occupational licensee.
Salvage certificate or nonrepairable vehicle certificate shall be free and clear of liens.
Imposes a state-mandated local program by creating a new infraction for perjury.
Requires the salvage pool to remove and submit nonrepairable vehicle's license plates to the DMV and maintain records of the license plate and notices sent for 2 years.
Legislative History
On Jan. 23, 2024, bill introduced in Assembly; on Apr. 18, 2024, bill passed Assembly.
On Apr. 18, 2024, bill introduced in Senate; on Aug. 29, 2024, bill passed in Senate.
On Sep. 11, 2024, bill was enrolled, and presented to Governor for further action.
Effectiveness
No effective date specified; generally effective Jan. 1 after enactment, on Jan. 1, 2025.
Sep. 22, 2024 CAL LEG Governor Approval
On Sep. 22, 2024, CAL LEG reported governor approved AB-1901, assigned Ch. 364.
