Assembly Bill 1122 introduces significant changes to the regulation of motor vehicle entry devices and the liability of renters for damages to rental vehicles. The bill establishes a new Class I felony for the manufacture, sale, or possession of motor vehicle key programming or emulating devices and relay attack devices with the intent to commit a crime. Additionally, individuals authorized to possess such devices must report them as lost or stolen within 48 hours, or they will also face a Class I felony charge. The bill also modifies the liability of renters, making them responsible for damages caused by theft during the rental period, regardless of whether the theft was intentionally caused by the renter.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws regarding damage waivers offered by rental companies. It allows for the exclusion of coverage for damages resulting from theft if the renter's negligence or intentional conduct contributed to the theft, or if the renter fails to report the theft within 24 hours or does not cooperate with investigations. The bill repeals certain provisions that previously presumed renters did not intentionally cause theft and renumbers related sections to reflect these changes. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability for renters and deter the misuse of motor vehicle entry devices.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 344.576(2)(k), 344.576, 344.579(3), 344.579