Senate Bill 141 proposes amendments to existing statutes regarding the operation and rental of motor vehicles by unlicensed individuals. The bill increases the penalties for allowing an unlicensed person to operate a motor vehicle or renting a vehicle to someone not authorized to drive. Specifically, it raises the maximum fine for a first offense from $100 to $1,000 and for a second or subsequent offense from $100 to $10,000. Additionally, the bill stipulates that these prohibitions apply regardless of whether the person permitting the operation had actual knowledge of the operator's authorization status.

The bill introduces new legal language in sections 343.45 and 343.46, clarifying that the prohibitions on allowing unlicensed operation and renting vehicles apply irrespective of the knowledge of the person permitting the operation. The amendments also replace the previous forfeiture language with the new fine structure, thereby significantly increasing the penalties for violations. This legislation aims to enhance road safety by discouraging the operation of vehicles by unlicensed individuals.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 343.45(3), 343.45, 343.46(4), 343.46