Criminal Justice (Policing)

SB 132 upgrades penalties for impersonating emergency personnel, changing the offense from a misdemeanor to a felony. It applies to anyone pretending to be a police officer, firefighter, paramedic (emergency medical services practitioner), or emergency medical responder with intent to deceive. The bill creates a new felony classification under state law, replacing current misdemeanor penalties for these specific impersonation acts. This directly affects individuals who falsely pose as these professionals, increasing potential criminal consequences.

AB 29 allows police to seize (impound) vehicles used in specific traffic violations, such as a second speeding offense exceeding 25 mph over the limit, repeated DUI-related violations, or reckless driving. It directly affects drivers convicted of these offenses, requiring vehicles to be held for 90 days unless released earlier through owner request (if they didn’t operate the vehicle during the violation) or court order. Owners can petition a court for immediate release within 30 days if charges are dismissed or if they prove ownership and lack of consent during the violation. If convicted, courts may adjust the impound period, and drivers must cover law enforcement’s reasonable impoundment costs.