Connecticut CT Registration / Vehicle Property Tax - Be aware or Beware!

[Redfish]

I just emailed my two state senators and reps:

I am writing to request your support regarding recently Proposed Bill No. 159. This bill proposes that subdivision (3) of section 14-1 of the general statutes be amended to redefine "antique, rare or special interest motor vehicle” to include a replica vehicle, as defined in the Low Volume Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Act of 2015, P. L. 114-94.

By amending the general statutes to include replicas / kit / composite vehicles, this bill would allow these vehicles to be eligible for classic license plate registration. This is important for replicas / kit / composite vehicles owners in Connecticut, since today, these vehicles are NEVER eligible for classic plates, and therefore exposed to extremely high annual vehicle property taxes, well above a reasonable assessment. According to state law, "any antique, rare or special interest motor vehicle", shall be assessed at not more than $500. By amending the general statutes, this assessment cap then applies to these vehicles.

By supporting this bill, you support the interest of automobile collectors and enthusiasts:

• Replica, kit and composite builders and owners would receive equal eligibility for classic plate registration, similar to any other vintage automobile in CT. Today, these vehicles are not eligible for classic plates, even when the chassis / frame is 20 years old.
• There are no standards for assessing the value of replica / kit / composite automobiles. Connecticut towns struggle on how to properly assess their value, therefore creating unneeded angst between the town and vehicle owner. A capped assessment of $500 eliminates this angst.
• The people who build / restore replica, kit and composite cars are primarily middle class, not rich.
• The volume of replica automobiles in CT is very low compared to production cars, therefore any monetary impact to the state is extremely low. However, the benefit to these vehicle owners is significant.
• By supporting this bill, you support small / manufacturing businesses. We have several replica companies and suppliers in Connecticut and bordering states. Consumers are more likely to purchase replicas and support these businesses knowing that classic plate registration eligibility exists in Connecticut.
• Classic plate eligibility provides automotive enthusiasts the ability to proudly display Connecticut classic plates on their vintage vehicle, reflecting a more ‘period correct’ appearance.

This is of personal interest to me, as I hand-built a Factory Five roadster replica kit back in the early 2000s with my ‘to-be’ wife at the time. My family has shared many memories together with the car and generated long lasting friendships with fellow owners. After many years of enjoyment, in 2019 the town of Middletown inexplicably raised the annual property tax assessment by 1500%. Despite providing thorough documentation to the assessors and appeal board, the appeal was declined. In 2020, the assessment was raised another 20%. Again, despite providing documentation, the appeal was declined. I have since rid the car from Connecticut, however I remain involved in the hobby and passionately advocate for this bill. Without classic plate registration eligibility, our hobby is at risk to become smaller, and will continue to be exposed to inexplicable, unsustainable annual property taxes in Connecticut.

Please support this bill, and support your Connecticut automotive enthusiast.