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 bill expands this authority, allowing for the impoundment of any vehicle used in a reckless driving offense, regardless of ownership or the operator's prior record. Additionally, it stipulates that vehicles can be impounded until any outstanding fines or forfeitures owed by the vehicle's owner are fully paid.

The bill also introduces a new 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 existing provisions for disposing of impounded vehicles, allowing political subdivisions to follow the same procedures as for abandoned vehicles if the impounded vehicle remains unclaimed for over 90 days. The amendments aim to enhance the enforcement of reckless driving laws and ensure that stolen vehicles are promptly returned to their rightful owners.

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