The bill amends various sections of Iowa's motor vehicle financial liability coverage laws to enhance compliance and enforcement. A new requirement is introduced whereby motor vehicle owners must certify that financial liability coverage is in effect when applying for vehicle registration, along with providing proof of such coverage. Additionally, the bill establishes that if a driver is cited for not having financial liability coverage but can provide proof that coverage was in effect at the time of the citation, the court will dismiss the charge. The bill also includes provisions for penalties, specifying that violations will incur fines that vary based on whether the violation occurred in connection with a motor vehicle accident, with increased penalties for repeat offenses.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the penalties associated with violations of financial liability coverage, detailing a structured fine system that escalates for subsequent violations within a five-year period. It also mandates that the county treasurer refuse registration and renewal of a vehicle if satisfactory proof of financial liability coverage is not provided. The effective date for these changes is set for December 1, 2028, allowing time for implementation and public awareness.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 321.20, 321.20B, 805.8A, 321.40
Reprinted: 321.20, 321.20B, 805.8A, 321.40