Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB411

Introduced
3/10/25  
Refer
3/10/25  
Report Pass
3/17/25  
Engrossed
3/19/25  
Refer
3/19/25  
Report Pass
4/1/25  
Enrolled
4/3/25  
Chaptered
4/9/25  

Caption

To Amend The Law Concerning The Height Of Vehicles; And To Create An Offense For The Operation Of A Vehicle With A Modified Bumper.

Impact

If enacted, SB411 would implement fines for those found in violation of this law, starting at $250 for a first offense, escalating to $500 for subsequent offenses within a twelve-month period. Additionally, a third offense would lead to a twelve-month suspension of the offender's driver's license. This legislation is expected to reinforce state regulations on vehicle modifications and promote uniformity in how vehicle height is governed, thereby potentially impacting existing state traffic laws and modification practices.

Summary

Senate Bill 411 aims to amend existing laws regarding the height of vehicles by establishing penalties for the operation of vehicles that have modified bumpers, thereby altering their height. Specifically, it creates an offense for driving a passenger car, pickup truck, sports utility vehicle, or panel truck if the front bumper is raised more than four inches higher than the rear bumper as a result of modifications to the vehicle's suspension, frame, or chassis. This initiative seeks to enhance road safety by ensuring that modifications do not result in vehicles that could be considered dangerous due to increased height.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB411 appears to favor increasing safety measures on the roads, reflecting a legislative intent to address concerns over vehicle modifications that could impair road handling or safety. Proponents of the bill argue that such regulations are necessary to prevent accidents caused by improperly modified vehicles, while opposition may arise from those who oppose increased government oversight of vehicle customization.

Contention

The main points of contention regarding SB411 will likely revolve around the balance between vehicle owner rights and public safety. Critics may view the bill as an unnecessary infringement on personal freedoms and vehicle customization choices, possibly arguing that existing laws already address unsafe vehicle conditions. However, supporters stress the need for clearer guidelines and penalties to deter modifications that could pose risks to drivers and passengers alike. The discussion reflects broader tensions in traffic regulation policies, emphasizing the need for dialogue on safety versus personal freedom in vehicle ownership.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1503

To Create The Offense Of Operating A Chop Shop; And To Create The Offense Of Dealing In Stolen Or Forged Motor Vehicle Parts.

AR HB1623

To Amend Arkansas Law Concerning The Offense Of Fleeing By Means Of A Vehicle Or Conveyance.

AR SB495

To Create The Protect Arkansas Act; To Amend Arkansas Law Concerning Sentencing And Parole; To Amend Arkansas Law Concerning Certain Criminal Offenses; And To Create The Legislative Recidivism Reduction Task Force.

AR HB1324

To Amend The Law Concerning Vehicle Headlamp Requirements.

AR HB1459

To Amend The Law Concerning Human Trafficking And Related Offenses; And To Amend The Law Concerning Fines For Human Trafficking.

AR HB1038

To Amend The Law Concerning The Lighting Requirements For Fire Department Vehicles And Ambulances.

AR SB395

To Amend The Law Concerning The Ownership, Operation, Or Control Of A Motor Vehicle Dealer By A Manufacturer.

AR HB1577

To Amend The Law Concerning Sexual Offenses, Including Without Limitation The Applicable Statute Of Limitations For And The Investigation Of Certain Sexual Offenses.

AR HB1480

To Amend The Law Concerning The Defenses To Prosecution For Operating An All-terrain Vehicle On A Public Street Or Highway.

AR HB1821

To Amend The Law Concerning The Rental Vehicle Tax; And To Amend The Distribution And Use Of Revenues Derived From The Rental Vehicle Tax.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.