It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:

SECTION 1. Chapter 31-3-3 of the General Laws entitled "Registration of Vehicles" is hereby amended by adding thereto the following section:

{ADD 31-3-3.1. Notice to Registry of Vehicle Lease Agreement. -- ADD} {ADD (a) Every owner of a vehicle subject to registration or renewal of registration under this chapter shall notify the registry within three (3) business days of any agreement to lease the registered vehicle for a period of six (6) months duration, or longer, except for those commercial motor vehicles covered under the federal motor carrier safety regulations, section 390.21.

(b) The registry shall cause the name and address of the lessee as well as the owner of the vehicle to be entered on the registry records as provided in this chapter.

(c) The name and address of both the owner and lessee shall be made available by the registry upon a registration inquiry from any law enforcement officer, department or agency. ADD}

SECTION 2. This act shall take effect January 1, 1997.