SF 2144 (LSB 5821XS (2) 89)

SENATE FILE 2144

BY  SHIPLEY

A BILL FOR

An Act relating to flashing lights equipped on motor vehicles, and making penalties applicable.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF IOWA:

    Section 1.  Section 321.423, Code 2022, is amended by adding the following new subsection:
   NEW SUBSECTION.  1A.  A person shall not operate a motor vehicle equipped with a flashing light if the flashing light is prohibited on or in the motor vehicle under this section or another provision of this chapter. A violation of this subsection shall be considered a moving violation.
EXPLANATION
The inclusion of this explanation does not constitute agreement with
the explanation’s substance by the members of the general assembly.
   Under current law, Code section 321.423 prohibits flashing lights on or in a motor vehicle. There are a wide variety of exceptions to the prohibition based on the color of the flashing light and the type of vehicle.
   This bill prohibits a person from operating a motor vehicle equipped with a flashing light if the flashing light is prohibited on or in the motor vehicle under current law. By operation of law, a violation of the bill is punishable by a scheduled fine of $45.
   Under current law, a moving violation can be considered for purposes of administrative suspension of a driver’s license or to establish habitual offender status. The department of transportation’s rules define a moving violation as any violation of motor vehicle laws with some exceptions, including violations of equipment standards to be maintained for motor vehicles. The bill specifies that a violation of the bill’s prohibition against flashing lights equipped on a motor vehicle is a moving violation.