Wisconsin Lawmakers Pass Bipartisan Bill Allowing Towing of Vehicles Used in Reckless Driving Incidents
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN — Wisconsin lawmakers have passed a bipartisan bill that would allow police to tow vehicles used in reckless driving incidents — even on a first offense — regardless of ownership. The measure now heads to Governor Tony Evers, who is expected to sign it into law.
The legislation marks a major step in Wisconsin’s ongoing effort to curb reckless driving and enhance public safety statewide.
One Strike, and the Vehicle Can Be Towed
Under current law, municipalities can only impound a vehicle if the reckless driver owns the car, has prior convictions, and owes unpaid fines. The new bill eliminates those restrictions, allowing cities, towns, and villages to tow any vehicle involved in reckless driving, even if it belongs to someone else — and even for a first-time offense.
If fines are not paid within 90 days, the impounded vehicle can be destroyed.
“If you’re out here acting a fool on the streets of Milwaukee, we’re going to take your vehicle,” said Milwaukee Alderman Lamont Westmoreland, one of the leading voices supporting the change. “I hope people think: ‘I don’t want my car to get impounded. I don’t want to deal with all of that.’ And they start driving normally.”
Police and Lawmakers Say It Sends a Clear Message
The Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) and city officials say the new law will give law enforcement stronger tools to hold reckless drivers accountable.
Assistant Chief Craig Sarnow said during a press conference that the message is simple:
“If you choose to put lives at risk, we’re taking the car. We’re going to impound it and put it right here. We’re taking away the weapon.”
Milwaukee Alderman Scott Spiker praised the measure for its rare bipartisan support, noting how serious the city’s reckless driving crisis has become.
“You don’t get a lot of bipartisan support these days, but we have it here. The problem we’re facing is severe — it’s catastrophic. It’s literally costing lives every day,” Spiker said.
Towing and Enforcement Details
According to city data, Milwaukee’s 2023 ordinance resulted in only 11 vehicle tows for reckless driving between June 2023 and February 2025 because of ownership limitations.
By contrast, 595 unregistered vehicles linked to reckless driving were seized during that same period under existing towing rules.
With this new legislation, law enforcement will be able to tow any car used in reckless driving, regardless of registration, and impound it until fines and fees are fully paid.
If the vehicle is stolen, the rightful owner will not be responsible for towing or storage fees.
Next Steps for Local Governments
Once signed by Governor Evers, the law will allow local municipalities to pass their own ordinances to enforce the new towing authority. Officials in Milwaukee say this process could take a few weeks after the bill becomes law.
Supporters of the measure believe it will deter repeat offenders and make Wisconsin roads safer for drivers and pedestrians alike.
For updates on this legislation and other public safety efforts across Wisconsin, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.