OLR Bill Analysis

sHB 5262 (as amended by House “A”)*

AN ACT CONCERNING THE IMPOUNDMENT OF VEHICLES USED FOR ILLEGAL STREET RACING.

SUMMARY:

By law, no one may operate a motor vehicle on a pubic highway for a wager, a race, or for the purpose of making a speed record. Violators are subject to a fine of $ 75 to $ 600, up to one year imprisonment, or both for a first offense and a $ 100 to $ 1,000 fine, up to one year imprisonment, or both for any subsequent offense. In addition to these penalties, this bill permits the court to (1) order the motor vehicle the person used to be impounded for up to 30 days if it is registered to the offender or (2) if the vehicle is registered to someone other than the offender, fine the offender up to $ 2,000 for a first offense and up to $ 3,000 for any subsequent offense. The bill makes an impounded vehicle's owner responsible for all fees or costs resulting from the impoundment.

*House Amendment “A” makes the bill effective on July 1, 2009, instead of October 1, 2009, and replaces a requirement that police impound someone's vehicle when the person is arrested with the court-ordered sanctions explained above.

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2009

COMMITTEE ACTION

Transportation Committee

Joint Favorable Substitute

Judiciary Committee

Joint Favorable