Bill 116 Makes A Move To Crack Down On Street Racing In Florida

Most people know that street racing is an illegal form of racing that occurs on a public road. In the past, most of these events were uncoordinated and races would go down with a few participants and cars on country roads or in industrial areas. However, this scene has drastically changed over the past few years with movies like the Fast and Furious, Street Outlaws, and video companies. What was once an underground event, had now been brought to the forefront gaining unwanted attention from lawmakers, police, as well as the media.

The latest movement to fight street racing comes from the state of Florida. Bill 116 sponsored by Democratic State Senator Linda Stewart of Orlando aims at shutting down this illegal activity. This bill has already passed the State Senate with a 39-0 vote. An identical Bill (Bill 611) sponsored by Democratic state Rep. Amy Mercado of Orlando has already been approved by the State House as well meaning that it will reach the Governor Ron DeSantis’ desk.

Bill 116 will give the police the authority to, “arrest a person without a warrant upon probable cause that the person committed a criminal racing violation.” Meaning, you could be arrested for street racing even if the officer didn’t witness the event. The Bill will also allow law enforcement to use videos, witnesses and any other evidence available to press charges against anyone participation in street racing activities.

Florida State Representative Amy Mercado of Orange County said her office has gotten dozens of complaints about the problem over the last few years. “Orange County families are tired of the dangerous and illegal street racing in their neighborhoods,” said Mercado. “This legislation will give law enforcement the tools they need to keep our communities safe and hold folks accountable. It’s about time we cracked down on illegal street racing for the sake of our families and neighbors. I look forward to this bill being signed into law by our governor.”