HB279 Alabama 2020 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Phillip PettusRepresentative

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2020

Title

Motor vehicles, require liability insurance for non-resident motorist, Secs. 32-7A-4, 32-7A-5, 32-7A-6 am'd.

Summary

HB279 would require nonresident drivers in Alabama to carry insurance that matches their vehicle's home state's rules and to keep proof of that insurance inside the vehicle they are driving.

What This Bill Does

The bill would bar nonresidents from operating in Alabama a vehicle registered to them in another state unless it is covered by liability insurance conforming to that state's requirements, and the nonresident must carry proof of insurance inside the vehicle. It sets minimum insurance coverage requirements and specifies acceptable forms of proof (such as insurance cards and declarations pages), including electronic formats. It also clarifies enforcement provisions and establishes that the act takes effect immediately after the governor approves it. Exemptions for certain vehicle types and operators remain, as outlined in current law.

Who It Affects

• Nonresident vehicle owners/drivers who operate or permit operation of a vehicle registered in another state while in Alabama; they must ensure their insurance complies with their home state's laws and carry proof inside the vehicle.
• Alabama insurers and licensed brokers, including surplus lines providers; they must issue compliant insurance documentation (cards, binders, declarations) and ensure information is available to verify coverage.

Key Provisions

• Nonresident may not operate or permit operation in Alabama of a vehicle registered to them in another state unless the vehicle is covered by liability insurance that conforms to the laws of the state of registration, and the nonresident carries proof of insurance inside the vehicle.
• The bill requires minimum liability amounts, specifies acceptable forms of proof (insurance card, declarations page, binder, etc.), directs insurers to issue Alabama insurance cards, and sets enforcement and effective date provisions, including immediate effectiveness upon governor's approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Motor Vehicles