Virginia House Bill HB759

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Window tinting; vehicle stop.

Impact

The bill's implementation is expected to standardize window tinting laws across the state, impacting existing vehicle regulations. By establishing clear limits on light transmittance and reflectivity, HB759 aims to reduce ambiguity in traffic enforcement. Law enforcement officers are mandated to use approved devices for measuring compliance, thus potentially enhancing the uniformity of traffic stops related to tinting violations. Vehicles previously outfitted with non-compliant films prior to the enactment may be exempt if proof of installation is provided, ensuring a degree of grandfathering for existing vehicles.

Summary

House Bill 759 amends and reenacts §46.2-1052 of the Code of Virginia regarding window tinting regulations for motor vehicles. The bill outlines specific requirements concerning the use of tinted films on various windows of a vehicle, detailing permissible levels of light transmittance and reflectivity. According to the new provisions, no tinting film may reduce the light transmittance of front side windows to less than 50%, while rear side and rear windows must not drop below 35%. The legislation aims to enhance road safety by ensuring drivers have adequate visibility and that law enforcement can better assess traffic situations.

Contention

Some points of contention regarding HB759 include concerns from vehicle owners and businesses involved in window tinting. Critics argue that the stringent requirements may infringe on personal freedoms regarding vehicle customization, while proponents stress the necessity for clearer regulations aimed at promoting safety. There are also discussions around the enforcement of such regulations, particularly regarding the threshold for law enforcement stops related to window tint violations, where officers cannot stop vehicles solely based on these regulations unless accompanied by other traffic infractions.