Louisville, Ky. — A new bill introduced in Kentucky could change the way law enforcement handles street racing. House Bill 465, filed Thursday by State Representative Beverly Chester-Burton, a Democrat from Shively, and co-sponsored by Republican Representative Jason Nemes of Middletown, aims to deter illegal street racing by allowing police to crush vehicles that are confiscated during such activities.
The proposed legislation would impose a fine for a first offense of street racing, but a second offense would result in both a fine and the forfeiture of the vehicle to the state. Once the car is handed over to authorities, law enforcement would have the authority to destroy it.
Supporters of the bill see it as a critical step in combating the growing problem of street racing, particularly in Louisville, where the issue has escalated in recent months. According to Chester-Burton, drag racing has become a significant safety concern in the city, endangering both participants and innocent bystanders.
“Drag racing has gotten significantly worse in Louisville, and it’s jeopardizing lives,” Chester-Burton said. “It’s clear to me – and to the bill’s primary co-sponsor, state Rep. Jason Nemes – that the only way to get the attention of those taking part is to make sure they know it will cost them dearly. My bill will do exactly that.”
The bill is a response to multiple incidents involving street racing and takeovers on public roads. Recently, two drivers were arrested on the Watterson Expressway after police caught them racing. One of the vehicles, a Honda Civic, was clocked going 123 miles per hour, while the other, a black Honda Accord, was traveling at 119 miles per hour. Both drivers were charged with reckless driving, speeding, and racing a motor vehicle on a public roadway.
Under the provisions of House Bill 465, if either of these drivers had been caught racing before, law enforcement would have been authorized to seize and destroy their vehicles.
Chester-Burton emphasized that the bill is not aimed at discouraging legal racing but is intended to prevent dangerous, illegal activity on public roads.
“Those determined to race their vehicles can find legal places to do just that, but our public roads should never be the location for these activities,” she said. “I hope my bill puts a stop to street racing once and for all.”
The introduction of this bill comes as law enforcement and lawmakers seek stronger measures to curb the rising danger of street racing, with the goal of protecting public safety and sending a clear message to those who continue to engage in such reckless behavior.
