Substitute House Bill No. 7132, effective October 1, 2025, introduces significant amendments to traffic laws, particularly focusing on vehicle identification, safety lighting, and the operation of motor vehicles. The bill mandates that vehicles with two number plates must display them at both the front and rear, with the option to place one against the rear window if legible. It also clarifies that number plates must be "substantially unobscured" for visibility and requires temporary number plates to closely conform to regular specifications. Additionally, the bill updates vehicle lighting requirements, specifying that all motor vehicles must have at least two tail lamps and that violations will be enforced under specific sections.

Moreover, the bill addresses the operation of vehicles concerning cannabis consumption, increasing the grace period for expired registrations, and modifying penalties for reckless driving and speeding. It classifies smoking cannabis in a vehicle as a class D misdemeanor, with specific conditions under which a peace officer may stop a vehicle for this violation. The bill also establishes a structured penalty system for young drivers convicted of traffic violations, including license suspensions for first and subsequent offenses. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance road safety, clarify legal definitions, and improve enforcement of traffic regulations.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 14-96a, 14-96c, 14-96y, 14-99f
JUD Joint Favorable Substitute: 14-96a, 14-96c, 14-96y, 14-99f
File No. 767: 14-96a, 14-96c, 14-96y, 14-99f
File No. 909: 14-96a, 14-96c, 14-96y, 14-99f, 14-222, 14-81b, 14-219b, 54-1q
Public Act No. 25-19: 14-96a, 14-96c, 14-96y, 14-99f, 14-222, 14-81b, 14-219b, 54-1q