The Indiana House has backed legislation proposed by State Representative Julie Olthoff, a Republican from Crown Point, which mandates that vehicles with altered appearances, such as changes in color or the addition of vinyl wraps, require an updated registration.
Representative Olthoff emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, “Our law enforcement depends on having accurate records of registered vehicles when conducting investigations. This bill would ensure they have the most up-to-date vehicle information to help find suspects and keep our streets safer.”
Senate Bill 331 aims to tackle challenges faced during criminal investigations involving stolen vehicles. The bill stipulates that any changes to the vehicle’s exterior appearance, such as new paintwork or the application or removal of vinyl wraps, must be registered within 30 days.
Currently, it remains the vehicle owner’s responsibility to inform the Bureau of Motor Vehicles of these alterations. Failure to update the registration after altering a vehicle’s color, if involved in a crime, will result in the operator being charged with a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a fine up to $500 and a possible jail term of up to 60 days.
Representative Olthoff noted that this rule does not apply to tractor-trailers and commercial fleet vehicles, which are exempt from this requirement.
Senate Bill 331 now advances to the governor for approval. Additional details and updates on legislative proceedings are available at iga.in.gov.
