Coachella Today

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom has signed AB 2186, a bill introduced by Assemblymember Greg Wallis, as part of a bipartisan public safety initiative. This legislation targets illegal sideshows and street takeovers, aiming to enhance law enforcement's ability to address these dangerous activities.

AB 2186 specifies that vehicles used in sideshows or speed exhibitions in parking lots are subject to the same impoundment laws as those on roadways. This provision ensures that law enforcement can intervene regardless of the location of these activities.

“Illegal sideshows aren’t just disruptive; they’re deadly,” said Assemblymember Wallis. “This bill makes it clear that reckless behavior, whether on the road or in parking lots, will face serious consequences. We’re giving law enforcement stronger tools to keep our streets and communities safe, and that’s something we can all get behind.”

Governor Newsom emphasized the significance of these new measures: “Sideshows are reckless, criminal activities that endanger our communities. We have seen too many people killed or hurt at these events. Today, we are sending a clear message to anyone considering participating in or attending a sideshow: stricter penalties are in place, including the potential loss of your vehicle.”

AB 2186 is part of a larger public safety package signed recently, comprising four bipartisan bills addressing the increase in illegal street takeovers and sideshows.