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Senate committee advances bill giving officers discretion to tow when drivers lack license or proof of insurance
Summary
The Senate Transportation Committee advanced Senate Bill 857 after debate over officer discretion, verification of insurance through state systems and the potential costs to motorists of towing and impound fees.
Senator Schwartner urged the Senate Transportation Committee on Wednesday to approve Senate Bill 857, which “gives law enforcement the discretionary authority to tow a vehicle when the driver is unlicensed, has a suspended, canceled, or revoked license, or is unable to show proof of insurance.”
The bill’s author said the measure is intended to free officers’ time at traffic stops and deter repeat offenders. “This would be an effective tool to both dissuade repeat offenders and free up officers' time at traffic stops,” Senator Schwartner said while laying out the bill for the committee.
In testimony and questions, officials from the Department…
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