The bill amends Sections 32-6-9 and 32-6-19 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to clarify the conditions and procedures for the impoundment of motor vehicles. It mandates that all motor vehicle operators must carry and present their driver licenses upon law enforcement request. New provisions allow law enforcement to impound vehicles if the driver's license is revoked or suspended due to DUI-related offenses, and officers are required to verify the license status before impounding a vehicle if the driver cannot produce a valid license. The bill also establishes penalties for operating a vehicle with a canceled, denied, suspended, or revoked license, including fines and potential additional suspensions of driving privileges.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section (32-6-19.1) detailing the procedures for the redemption and disposal of impounded vehicles, while exempting health care providers and first responders from certain impoundment regulations. It modifies the release process for impounded vehicles, requiring law enforcement to direct an approved towing service to maintain custody until the registered owner or authorized agent claims it. The bill also allows towing services to place a lien on the vehicle for reasonable fees and removes the requirement for prior lienholders to be notified of sales related to the lien. Furthermore, it stipulates that counties or municipalities cannot provide funds for obtaining driver licenses or identification cards unless the same identification proof required for licenses is presented. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 32-6-9, 32-6-19
Engrossed: 32-6-9, 32-6-19