Mississippi joins several other states in banning “squatted” vehicles, making them illegal as of July 1 with violators facing fines and even potential license suspensions. Several of these vehicles have been seen throughout Yazoo County.
The new law arrives after Gov. Tate Reeves’ signature of House Bill 349, which prohibits “squatted” vehicles on public streets and highways.
According to the bill, “squatted vehicles” are “vehicles whose front fenders have been raised four or more inches greater than the rear fenders. The described modification makes a vehicle appear as if it is "squatting" on its back tires.”
The Mississippi Highway Patrol recently announced its intent to enforce the new law.
“The main goal of this new law is to keep everyone safe on the roads and encourage safe and smart driving habits,” according to the MHP. “Modifying vehicles in ways that affect visibility isn't just risky for the driver but for everyone sharing the road.”
The bill states that violators could face misdemeanor charges with penalties including a $100 fine for the first offense; a $200 fine for the second offense: and a $300 fine and license suspension for a year from the date of conviction for a third or subsequent offense.
The Herald has received several complaints from Yazoo County residents about the increase presence of “squatted vehicles” on local roads. However, although the law goes into effect on July 1, the bill also states that there will be a warning period with penalties taking effect in 180 days.
“For a period of one hundred eighty (180) days after the effective date, state and local law enforcement officers shall only issue warning tickets for a violation of the provisions of this section,” the bill states. “From and after January 27, 2025, state and local law enforcement officers shall issue tickets that assess penalties…to drivers of squatted vehicles.”
The fines collected from the violations will be placed into the state’s general fund to be used for secondary school driver education and training programs.
Photo provided by the Mississippi Highway Patrol
