Senate Bill No. 348, introduced by Senator Edmonds, aims to enhance the enforcement of motor vehicle regulations by allowing local law enforcement agencies, such as sheriffs and municipal police departments, to contract with licensed private service providers for administrative and logistical support. The bill stipulates that these contracts can only be executed if a commissioned law enforcement officer has initiated the enforcement action. It defines a "service provider" and outlines specific functions they may perform, including plate processing, electronic verification of vehicle compliance data, and administrative coordination with towing facilities.
Additionally, the bill establishes that all services provided by these third-party contractors must be conducted under the documented direction of the contracting law enforcement agency. It allows motorists to voluntarily execute a written waiver to surrender their vehicle license plate and permit the private service provider to handle it, ensuring that such waivers are documented and retained according to law enforcement record-keeping standards. Importantly, the bill clarifies that it does not grant any police powers or law enforcement authority to the service providers. The proposed law is set to take effect on August 1, 2026.