Bill > S1824

This bill amends Florida law to allow law enforcement agencies to impound a motor vehicle for 30 business days if the driver willfully flees or attempts to elude a law enforcement officer. The law enforcement agency must make a diligent effort to notify the vehicle's registered owner of the impoundment and report it to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The vehicle can be released to the owner or their agent under specific conditions: if the vehicle was stolen at the time of the violation (with a police report), if the vehicle was in the care of another person who was driving (with a sworn statement and witness corroboration), or if the owner's family member has no alternative transportation. The owner, lessee, or renter must pay all impoundment fees and costs, and the bill references existing statutes about vehicle liens and recovery. If the vehicle owner does not fully cooperate in an investigation or changes statements that lead to terminating an investigation, the vehicle will remain impounded for the full 30-business day period. The bill also maintains existing provisions that allow vehicles involved in such violations to be considered contraband and subject to potential forfeiture. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1824