Assembly Bill 78 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 cited individual is the owner and has a prior reckless driving conviction with unpaid forfeitures. The new bill expands this authority, allowing for the impoundment of any vehicle used in a reckless driving offense, irrespective 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, the bill modifies the disposal process for unclaimed vehicles, allowing political subdivisions to dispose of them after 90 days, following the same procedures as for abandoned vehicles. The amendments aim to enhance the enforcement of reckless driving laws and ensure that vehicles involved in such offenses are appropriately managed.

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