Alabama Senate Bill SB58

Alabama 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/7/23
• Report Pass: 4/5/23
• Engrossed: 4/6/23
• Refer: 4/6/23

Caption

Relating to motor vehicles; to prohibit certain motor vehicle speed contests, motor vehicle exhibitions of speed, and motor vehicle sideshows; to provide criminal penalties for a violation; and in connection therewith would have as its purpose or effect the requirement of a new or increased expenditure of local funds within the meaning of Section 111.05 of the Constitution of Alabama of 2022.

Impact

The bill establishes a series of legal restrictions and corresponding penalties for those who violate this law. First-time offenders may face imprisonment and fines, escalating in severity with repeat offenses. If bodily injury or property damage results from such violations, penalties increase significantly, possibly involving misdemeanor or felony charges. The law enforcement implications are substantial, as it empowers officers to impound vehicles involved in these illegal activities, thereby potentially reducing the occurrence of such reckless actions on public streets and enhancing overall community safety.

Summary

SB58 is a bill introduced in Alabama that aims to address the issues of motor vehicle speed contests, exhibitions of speed, and sideshows. The bill seeks to prohibit these activities on public roads and private property without owner consent, aiming to reduce safety hazards associated with reckless driving behaviors. As outlined, it includes specific definitions for various forms of stunt driving, such as burnouts, donuts, and speed contests, to clarify what actions are deemed illegal under this new statute.

Contention

One notable aspect of the bill revolves around the discussions regarding the adequacy of such prohibitive measures on personal freedoms and local governance. While proponents argue that it will help combat a growing trend of dangerous driving stunts that endanger public safety, critics may raise concerns about the enforcement of the bill and its implications for individual rights regarding vehicle use on private properties. Overall, the legislation seeks to strike a balance between public safety and constitutional allowances while instituting criminal repercussions for offenders.