Fox Cities News

State Sen. Robert Cowles has celebrated the enactment of Wisconsin Act 43, a legislation aimed at extending fee waivers for vehicle transfers following the death of a family member. The Act seeks to alleviate financial pressures and reduce the tax burden on Wisconsin residents. It broadens the definition of "immediate family member" to encompass a spouse, grandparent, parent, sibling, child, stepchild, stepparent, grandchild, or the spouse of any of these relatives.

In response to this development, Cowles' office issued a press release in which he stated: "Among the costs imposed by funeral services, accountants, and lawyers, the death of a loved one can be financially taxing on families as they settle their affairs. I faced a situation similar to this myself and can understand the frustration Wisconsin’s families go through in the transfer of a vehicle title after a death in the family. Thanks to Act 43, families in mourning won’t have to worry about paying additional fees to the state when they are placed in an emotionally difficult situation."

The same press release further explains that prior to this change in law, new owners were required to pay a $157 certificate title transfer fee and a $7.50 supplemental fee if they inherited a vehicle from a deceased individual. These fees were only waived if the vehicle was transferred to the deceased person's spouse or domestic partner.

State Rep. Cindi Duchow (R-Delafield) also commented on this legislative change via Cowles' office press release: "This change in law helps grieving families worry about one less thing. Think of the classic car that they worked on with their fathers or a grandchild getting their first car so they can go off to college – these individuals wanted to bless their families, not stick them with one more government tax."

According to 2023 Wisconsin Act 43 details, it was enacted on Dec. 6, 2023 and will take effect on the first day of the seventh month following its publication, setting the effective date as July 1, 2024.

Cowles' official website reveals that he represents the 2nd Senate District, which includes parts of Brown, Outagamie, Shawano, and Waupaca counties in Northeast Wisconsin. He serves as Chair of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Energy and Co-Chair of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee.