HB34 Summary

• Amends Section 32-6-19 of the Alabama Code to authorize law enforcement officers to immediately remove drivers from vehicles and impound vehicles when operators lack a valid driver's license or have had their license suspended or revoked.

• Allows law enforcement or hired companies to impound vehicles or alternatively place immobilization devices (boots) on vehicles, with boot removal fees capped at $65 per day and all-inclusive with no additional charges permitted.

• Requires immobilization devices to be high-visibility color (yellow, orange, or red), properly maintained, and designed as lockable wheel clamps with no cables, chains, or ropes allowed.

• Permits vehicle owners or authorized agents to recover impounded vehicles by paying reasonable towing and storage fees, and allows arrested drivers to petition courts to challenge whether officers had reasonable belief the driver violated licensing requirements; if no reasonable belief existed, the law enforcement agency becomes liable for towing and storage fees.

• Effective date is the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval.