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SSB 1038

A bill for an act relating to abandoned vehicles, and making penalties applicable.

2025-2026 Regular Session

SF 468 streamlines the removal of abandoned vehicles, empowering police and private entities to enhance public safety and reduce clutter on public and private lands.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 468.
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Bill Summary · SSB 1038

Summary of SSB 1038 (Renumbered as SF 468)

Purpose and Intent

SSB 1038, now renumbered as SF 468, is a proposed legislative bill aimed at addressing the issue of abandoned vehicles. The bill seeks to streamline the process for law enforcement and private entities to take custody of abandoned vehicles, thereby improving public safety and the management of personal property on both public and private lands.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant amendments to Section 321.89 of the Code 2025 regarding abandoned vehicles:

  1. Authority to Take Custody:

    • Police authorities are granted the power to take custody of abandoned vehicles on public property and may also do so on private property upon request from property owners.
    • Police can utilize their own resources or hire private entities for the removal, preservation, storage, or disposal of abandoned vehicles.

  2. Private Entity Involvement:

    • Property owners can hire private entities, defined as garagekeepers, to dispose of abandoned vehicles without needing police authority's initiative.
    • If a police authority employs a private entity, they must provide the entity with the names and addresses of registered owners and lienholders.

  3. Liability Protection:

    • Owners, lienholders, or claimants of abandoned vehicles cannot pursue legal action against private entities for actions taken under this bill, provided the private entity follows the required notice and inspection protocols.

  4. Notification Requirements:

    • A police authority or private entity must send a certified mail notice to the last known registered owner and all lienholders within 25 days of taking custody of an abandoned vehicle.

Affected Parties

  • Law Enforcement: Police authorities will have enhanced capabilities to manage abandoned vehicles, potentially reducing clutter and safety hazards on public roads.
  • Private Entities: Garagekeepers and other private entities will have clearer authority and responsibilities in handling abandoned vehicles.
  • Property Owners: Individuals controlling private property will have the ability to address abandoned vehicles more effectively, reducing liability and facilitating disposal.
  • Vehicle Owners and Lienholders: Those with claims to abandoned vehicles will be notified of actions taken regarding their property, although they will have limited recourse against private entities.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: January 22, 2025
  • Committee Actions:
    • The bill was referred to the Commerce Committee upon introduction.
    • A subcommittee recommended amendments and passage on January 28, 2025.
    • The committee approved the bill on February 26, 2025, leading to its renumbering as SF 468.

Conclusion

SSB 1038 (SF 468) represents a legislative effort to enhance the management of abandoned vehicles, providing law enforcement and private entities with clearer authority and responsibilities. By establishing defined processes for custody and disposal, the bill aims to improve public safety and reduce the burden of abandoned vehicles on communities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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