SB 5081 failed to pass the opposite-chamber policy committee cutoff, making it no longer active.

AWC seeks feedback on bill protecting cars with a remote starter system

February 13, 2026

Legislation to align state law with current automotive technology would create protections for drivers who use a remote system to start their car under certain circumstances.

Under current law, a car may only be left unattended if the engine is stopped, the ignition locked, the key removed, and the brake effectively engaged. If the most recent driver of an unattended car learns that it has moved and struck another car, property, or a person, the driver must either find the owner of the struck vehicle or damaged property (or leave contact information at the scene) or stay at the scene to assist and share contact and insurance information.

Under SB 5081, sponsored by Sen. Phil Fortunato (R–Auburn), when a car has been turned on through a remote starter system, so long as it is standing and locked and the keys are not inside, it is not considered unattended. The requirements for the driver in the circumstances described above still apply.

Please contact AWC staff to express any concerns you have with the bill, including suggestions for mitigating amendments. We ask for timely responses, as the legislation is a return bill from 2025 that has already progressed to the opposite chamber.

Date to remember

SB 5081 is scheduled for a public hearing in the House Transportation Committee on Wednesday, February 18, at 4 pm.