NY S07018

Increases penalties for violations of towing regulations, including raising the maximum fine for third violations within 24 months from $1,000 to $2,000, and adding misdemeanor penalties of $500-$3,000 or up to 90 days imprisonment for knowing or willful violations.

Raises the surety bond requirement for tow truck operators from $5,000 to $25,000, with commissioner authority to increase it up to $250,000 (previously $25,000).

Adds grounds for license suspension or revocation when a tow operator receives five or more complaints within one year for violations of towing regulations, or commits two or more violations of specific towing provisions within one year.

Prohibits tow truck operators from using spotters or targeting techniques at parking lots and requires written consent from property owners before conducting towing operations on private or commercial property.

Expands restrictions on soliciting towing services to include locations near scenes where vehicles are being removed under towing regulations, and requires the tow advisory board to conduct public hearings in each borough within 180 days to address towing enforcement issues.