HB219 Alabama 2024 Session

Updated Feb 23, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: David FaulknerRepresentative
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2024
Title: Motor vehicles, requires proof of current registration and insurance to claim a vehicle from impound the first time or any subsequent time it is impounded.
Summary: HB219 would require proof of current registration and insurance before an impounded vehicle can be released, effective October 1, 2024.
What This Bill Does
It tightens release rules for vehicles impounded for failing to show proof of registration and insurance. Now, the impounded vehicle cannot be released until proof of registration and insurance is presented and any other legal requirements are satisfied. This applies to impounds from traffic stops or accidents as well as other impound events. Verification of proof can be done through online systems, and towing/impound fees must still be paid; tow companies may place a lien for those fees.

Who It Affects
Drivers or vehicle owners who fail to provide current registration and insurance; their vehicles would be held until proof is shown.
Law enforcement officers and towing/impound companies; they must enforce the stricter release rules, verify proof of insurance/registration, and handle fee collection (including liens).

Key Provisions
If a vehicle is impounded due to lack of proof of registration and insurance, it may not be released until proof of registration and insurance is presented and other legal requirements are satisfied.
Every impounded vehicle must not be released until proof of current registration and insurance is presented and all other legal requirements are satisfied.
Evidence of registration and insurance may be verified through the online insurance verification system or other electronic means.
A towing service that removes a vehicle at the direction of a law enforcement officer may have a lien on the vehicle for all reasonable and customary towing, impoundment, and storage fees.
Effective date: October 1, 2024.

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 & Traffic