This bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes related to traffic enforcement, specifically addressing the definition and removal of abandoned vehicles, the unlawful operation of vehicles with improperly assigned registration, and the seizure of vehicles under the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act. It introduces a new definition for "abandoned vehicle," which includes criteria such as being in a state of disuse, neglect, or abandonment, and outlines the circumstances under which law enforcement may remove such vehicles. Additionally, it mandates that a notice be placed on abandoned vehicles before removal, detailing the violation and the timeline for removal.

The bill also establishes penalties for operating a vehicle with a registration plate or validation sticker that was not lawfully assigned, classifying it as a misdemeanor of the first degree. It specifies conditions under which knowledge of the violation is presumed, such as prior charges related to the offense. Furthermore, it expands the circumstances under which a motor vehicle may be seized under the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act to include instances where the vehicle is used to flee from law enforcement. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1378 Filed: 320.261, 932.703