This bill enacts new provisions in Louisiana law regarding the disabling of remote access technology on motor vehicles, specifically aimed at protecting survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and stalking. It establishes definitions for key terms such as "abuser," "covered act," and "survivor," and mandates that motor vehicle manufacturers must suspend remote access technology within two business days upon receiving a complete request from a survivor. The request must include a certified protective order or temporary restraining order against the abuser, and the technology must remain disabled for the duration of such orders. Additionally, manufacturers are prohibited from charging fees or contacting the abuser after a request is submitted.
The bill also introduces a civil fine of up to $1 million for manufacturers that fail to comply with these requirements and establishes the Survivor Empowerment Fund, which will receive funds from these fines to assist victims of crime. The fund will be managed by the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Criminal Justice, which will also create rules for its implementation. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions that protect manufacturers from liability in cases where they are unable to disable the technology due to technological limitations.