HB 2306 Summary

• Towing companies must release vehicles to owners or insurance company designees during normal business hours upon written request, detailed statement of charges, and payment of reasonable towing and storage fees.

• Beginning January 1, 2019, vehicle release requests must use a standard form prescribed by the Department of Transportation and include owner information, insurance details if applicable, and proof of ownership.

• Towing companies must provide detailed written statements of all charges at no cost; if not provided by close of business on the day requested, no storage charges may accrue on subsequent days until the statement is provided.

• Towing companies must tow accident vehicles to the closest designated storage lot unless there is insufficient capacity or the owner directs otherwise, and cannot move vehicles between lots or charge additional fees without prior permission from the owner or insurance company.

• Violations of vehicle release requirements constitute petty offenses for first violations and class 3 misdemeanors for subsequent violations within 36 months; violations are unlawful practices subject to investigation by the Attorney General.