Senate Bill 65 proposes amendments to the statutes regarding the impoundment of vehicles involved in reckless driving offenses. Currently, a political subdivision can only impound a vehicle if the owner has a prior reckless driving conviction and has not fully paid the associated forfeiture. The new bill expands this authority, allowing for the impoundment of any vehicle used in a reckless driving offense, regardless of the owner's prior record. Additionally, it stipulates that vehicles can be impounded until any outstanding fines or forfeitures owed by the owner are fully paid.

The bill also introduces a requirement for law enforcement officers to check if an impounded vehicle has been reported as stolen. If the vehicle is confirmed as stolen, it must be returned to the owner without any fees. Furthermore, if a stolen vehicle remains unclaimed for over 60 days after being impounded, the political subdivision may dispose of it following the procedures for abandoned vehicles. The amendments include the deletion of previous conditions related to ownership and prior convictions, while new provisions are added to ensure the return of stolen vehicles without charge.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 349.115(1), 349.115, 349.115(3)