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FL H0701
Bill
Status
Failed
5/5/2023
Primary Sponsor
Transportation & Modals Subcommittee
Click for details
AI Summary
- Prohibits the Florida Highway Patrol from excluding wrecker operators from the wrecker operator system based solely on a prior felony conviction, unless the conviction is for a forcible felony as defined in s. 776.08
- Defines "towing-storage operator," limits the fees they may charge to specific categories (hazardous waste, locally authorized fees, DHSMV-authorized fees, lien release administrative fees, and municipal/county administrative fees), and requires acceptance of credit cards, debit cards, and other electronic payment methods
- Shortens key notice and sale timeframes: notice of lien must be sent within 3 business days (reduced from 7), unclaimed vehicles over 3 years old may be sold after 35 days of storage, vehicles 3 years or younger after 65 days (increased from 50), and public notice of sale must be published at least 30 days before the sale (increased from 10)
- Requires towing-storage operators to allow inspection of towed vehicles and vessels within 3 business days of a written request, accept electronic or paper titles as proof of interest, retain records for 3 years, and establishes s. 713.78 as the exclusive remedy for foreclosing storage liens on vehicles or vessels
- Expands the bond-to-release process under s. 559.917 to cover liens claimed by towing-storage operators in addition to motor vehicle repair shops, allowing vehicle or vessel owners to post a bond with the court to secure release, with the lienor having 60 days to file suit and prevailing parties potentially entitled to damages, court costs, and attorney fees
Legislative Description
Wrecker and Towing-Storage Operators
Last Action
Died in Infrastructure Strategies Committee
5/5/2023
Committee Referrals
Infrastructure Strategies Committee3/27/2023
Civil Justice Subcommittee3/23/2023
Transportation & Modals Subcommittee2/21/2023
Full Bill Text
No bill text available