Ex. Summary:
House Bill 22-1314 enhances consumer protections against unauthorized towing by requiring towing operators to notify law enforcement within thirty minutes of a nonconsensual tow, provide timely notice to vehicle owners and lienholders, and document the vehicle’s condition before removal. The legislation prohibits towing solely based on expired vehicle registration, mandates clear signage on private properties, and limits towing fees to prevent excessive charges. It also ensures that vehicle owners can retrieve personal belongings without having to pay full towing costs and establishes penalties for towing companies that violate these regulations. Additionally, a towing oversight task force will review industry practices to ensure fairness. The bill balances consumer rights and the necessary enforcement of parking regulations by curbing predatory towing practices and increasing transparency.