The bill amends Section 32-5A-58.2 of the Code of Alabama 1975, known as the Alabama Move Over Act, to increase penalties for violations related to the movement of vehicles near authorized emergency and utility service vehicles. Key insertions include the addition of the name "John Hubbard" to the Act's title, the expansion of the types of vehicles covered under the law to include utility service vehicles and those engaged in maintenance, construction, or surveying, and the stipulation that drivers must vacate the lane closest to these vehicles or slow down significantly when passing. The penalties for violations are also increased, with fines raised from $100 to $200 for first offenses, and up to $300 for third or subsequent offenses, along with mandatory suspension of driving privileges for repeat offenders.

Additionally, the bill introduces increased criminal penalties for violations that occur in conjunction with other serious offenses, such as driving under the influence or reckless driving, and establishes a tiered punishment system for collisions resulting from violations of the Move Over Act, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies based on the severity of injuries caused. The Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency is tasked with launching an educational campaign to inform the public about these changes, and the act is set to take effect on October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 32-5A-58
Engrossed: 32-5A-58
Enrolled: 32-5A-58