The bill amends Sections 32-6-65 and 32-6-233.1 of the Code of Alabama 1975, focusing on the management of fines and fees associated with driving without a valid license plate and violations of special access parking regulations. Key provisions include the introduction of a uniform registration renewal form for statewide use and the stipulation that penalties for late vehicle registration will be enforced by law enforcement. Notably, individuals on military deployment will not face late registration penalties if they renew their vehicle registration within 30 days of returning. Additionally, fines for operating a vehicle without a current license plate will now be allocated to the entity employing the arresting officer, while previous provisions directing funds to the State Treasury have been deleted.

The bill also addresses illegal parking in accessible spaces, increasing fines for violations and mandating community service for repeat offenders. It empowers law enforcement to enforce regulations on private property and requires signage indicating fine amounts for special access parking violations. The distribution of collected fines has been revised to provide local law enforcement agencies with a larger share. Furthermore, the bill clarifies the authority of municipal law enforcement officers and state troopers to tow vehicles illegally parked in accessible spaces and issue violations for access aisle infractions, with updated definitions for "access aisle." The act is set to be repealed three years after October 1, 2025, and will take effect on that date. Changes in legal language include the deletion of terms like "are authorized to" and "ticket," replaced with "may cause" and "may issue violations for," to enhance clarity regarding law enforcement authority.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 32-6-65, 32-6-233
Engrossed: 32-6-65, 32-6-233
Enrolled: 32-6-65, 32-6-233