Bill > HF918

This bill strengthens Iowa's motor vehicle financial liability coverage requirements by implementing several key changes. Vehicle owners will now be required to certify financial liability coverage when registering a vehicle and provide proof of insurance, such as an insurance card, during the registration process. The bill establishes that state departments and county treasurers can refuse vehicle registration if satisfactory proof of financial liability coverage is not provided. For drivers found in violation of financial responsibility requirements, the bill introduces a graduated penalty system: first-time violators will face fines of $325 or $645 depending on whether the violation is associated with a motor vehicle accident, with subsequent violations within five years resulting in doubled or tripled fines. If a driver can produce proof of insurance before their court date, the citation will be dismissed, though court costs will still be assessed. The bill also simplifies the penalty process by requiring law enforcement to issue a citation for violations. Most of these provisions will take effect on December 1, 2028, giving vehicle owners and state agencies time to prepare for the new requirements. The goal of these changes appears to be ensuring more comprehensive auto insurance coverage and creating stronger accountability for drivers.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Public Safety (House)

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF918