Iowa Senate Bill SF491

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/23
• Refer: 6/5/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to motor vehicle window tint, and making penalties applicable.(Formerly SF 350; See SF 2267.)

Impact

The bill effectively overrides the previous authority of the DOT to set minimum transparency standards, thereby centralizing the regulatory power directly within the legislative framework. This change signifies a shift from a more flexible regulatory approach to a strict baseline that directly addresses concerns around vehicle visibility and safety. Violating these new provisions would incur a scheduled fine of $70, incentivizing compliance among motorists.

Summary

Senate File 491 addresses the regulations surrounding motor vehicle window tinting in the state of Iowa. The bill notably alters the legal requirements for light transmittance and reflectance concerning vehicle windows, specifically front windshields and side windows adjacent to the driver. Under current law, specific thresholds for transparency are established by the Department of Transportation (DOT), but SF491 aims to enforce stricter limits by prohibiting window tints that allow less than 25 percent light transmittance or exceed a luminous reflectance of 25 percent. This legislative effort seeks to reduce obscured visibility and enhance safety on the highways.

Contention

As with many legislative changes, SF491 has not been free from contention. Discussions during committee meetings indicated diverse opinions on the bill's potential impact. Supporters argue that the bill will bolster public safety by reducing obscured visibility from excessively tinted windows, thus facilitating better law enforcement operations. Conversely, critics may express concerns regarding the restrictiveness of the bill and its impact on individual freedoms, particularly regarding personal vehicle modifications.