Alabama House Bill HB35

Alabama 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/14/25
• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 8/14/25
• Refer: 1/13/26
• Report Pass: 1/14/26
• Refer: 2/5/26
• Report Pass: 2/11/26

Caption

Motor vehicles; Alabama Squat Truck Law; prohibitions on the alteration of the height of the fender of a vehicle, provided

Impact

If enacted, HB35 would modify state laws regarding vehicle modifications, specifically targeting the height of vehicle fenders. The bill's provisions aim to ensure that vehicles maintained on public roads adhere to standardized safety measurements. By enforcing specific height standards, the legislation would likely promote safer driving conditions and reduce the number of vehicle-related accidents attributed to improper modifications. Law enforcement may also receive clearer guidelines to enforce compliance among vehicle owners and modify practices concerning inspections related to height alterations.

Summary

House Bill 35, known as the Alabama Squat Truck Law, seeks to establish prohibitions on the alteration of the height of the fender of motor vehicles. The legislation aims to address concerns surrounding the safety implications associated with vehicles that have been modified, particularly those that appear to be excessively raised or altered, which can pose hazards to both the drivers and other road users. This bill reflects growing public and legislative attention to ensuring that vehicle modifications adhere to safety standards while preventing potentially dangerous alterations that may arise without regulatory oversight.

Contention

Discussions around the implications of HB35 may highlight points of contention among vehicle owners, automotive enthusiasts, and lawmakers. Advocates of the bill might argue that it provides necessary regulations to protect public safety, while opponents could express concerns regarding their autonomy to modify vehicles for aesthetic or performance enhancement purposes. Opponents may assert that stringent regulations could lead to conflicts with personal expression and automotive culture, emphasizing the need for a balance between safety and individual rights.