House Bill No. 2178 introduces new provisions regarding the emergency installation and use of mobile tracking devices on vehicles by authorized peace officers. The bill allows these officers to install and use such devices without a prior court order if they have probable cause to believe the vehicle is involved in the commission of certain felonies and if immediate action is necessary to prevent harm or the escape of a fugitive. The bill outlines specific conditions under which this emergency installation can occur, including the requirement that the officer must obtain a court order within 72 hours after the device is installed.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if the court denies the application for the order or fails to issue it within the specified timeframe, the officer must cease using the tracking device, and any information obtained during that period cannot be used as evidence in criminal proceedings. This legislation aims to balance the need for law enforcement to act swiftly in critical situations while ensuring that there are checks in place to protect individuals' rights. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025.