Bill > HB0136

This bill amends existing Utah law to address situations involving drivers without a valid "driving credential," which is defined as a driver license, driving privilege card, or learner permit issued by the state, or a driver license from another U.S. state, the U.S. Department of State, or a foreign country. The primary changes allow law enforcement officers to seize a vehicle if the operator does not have a driving credential in their possession, unless the officer can verify that the operator has been issued one. However, officers are not required to seize the vehicle in certain circumstances, such as if the credential is expired, if seizing the vehicle would create a public safety concern, if the operator is under 18, or if another licensed individual is present and able to drive or can pick up the vehicle. The bill also updates reporting requirements for vehicle impoundments to include operating without a driving credential as a reason for impoundment and adjusts associated administrative fees. Additionally, it introduces a "quick fingerprint" process for individuals stopped by law enforcement who cannot verify their driving credential, requiring a fingerprint for identification purposes that is not stored in databases, with exceptions for safety concerns or lack of equipment. Finally, the bill modifies the effective date for certain provisions related to vehicle impoundment reporting and mandates that law enforcement agencies be equipped with portable biometric capture devices by January 1, 2028.