New law on 'squatted vehicles" goes into effect in July

Press Release

Governor Tate Reeves has recently signed House Bill 349 which will be effective July 1, 2024.

This legislation addresses the issue of 'squatted vehicles' – trucks or vehicles with front fenders raised 4 inches or more higher than the rear fenders

The main goal of this new law is to keep drivers/passengers safe on the roads and encourage safe and smart driving habits. Modifying vehicles in ways that affect visibility isn't just risky for the driver, but for everyone sharing the road.

The language of the new law states "It shall be unlawful for any person to drive a passenger motor vehicle on the public roadways of this state which has been elevated or lowered, yet still leveled, more than six (6) inches by a modification, alteration, or change in the physical structure of the vehicle.  Any person violating the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not less than Twenty-five Dollars ($25.00) nor more than Fifty Dollars ($50.00).  However, the provisions in this subsection shall not apply to motor vehicles commonly referred to as "pickup trucks."

It shall be unlawful for any person to drive a passenger motor vehicle, including vehicles commonly referred to as pickup trucks, on the public roadways of this state if, by alteration of the suspension, frame or chassis, the height of the front fender is raised or lowered four (4) or more inches greater than the height of the rear fender.   

A person who violates the provisions of this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction:

·       For a first offense, shall be fined One Hundred Dollars ($100.00);

·       For a second offense, shall be fined Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00);

·       For a third or subsequent offense, shall be fined Three Hundred Dollars ($300.00) and have his or her license suspended by the Department of Public Safety for twelve (12) months from the date of conviction.