STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS31526 / H0690
This bill would accomplish several things. First, it would reiterate in code that peace officers can give warnings
for not carrying automobile insurance as some individuals fail to carry simply for not realizing it lapsed at
the end of the year, giving some grace while also putting them on notice. Second, if an individual has three
warnings, that individual demonstrated they disregarded the warnings and laws for the road and must have
their vehicle towed as they are a danger on the road. Thirdly, if an uninsured individual is in a wreck, their
vehicle will be towed regardless of who is at fault. Lastly, this bill raises the first-time offense penalty for
driving without insurance from $75.00 to $200.00. Currently, Idaho has the lowest first-time fine of any state
that has fines for driving without insurance (there are a couple of states with no fine or a reinstatement fee).
Additionally, Idaho was ranked as having the cheapest automobile insurance in the United States by a Forbes
advisor article, published in October 2023.
FISCAL NOTE
There would be no fiscal impact to the general fund.
Contact:
Representative Rod Furniss
(208) 332-1000
Dexton Lake, Idaho Farm Bureau
(208) 333-7086
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note Bill SOP/FN INTRODUCED: 03/04/2024, 8:55 AM


Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 49-1229, 49-1803A