Bill > HB184

This bill establishes the Georgia Consumer Protection Towing Act, which creates comprehensive regulations for towing services in the state. The legislation provides detailed guidelines for different types of towing, including emergency, private property, and owner-requested towing, with the primary goal of protecting consumers and ensuring fair practices. Key provisions include requiring towing companies to provide detailed rate sheets and itemized invoices, take photographs of vehicles before towing, and follow specific notification procedures. The bill mandates that towing companies must obtain and maintain records of towed vehicles, provide written notice to vehicle owners within a specified timeframe, and offer multiple payment options for vehicle release. It also establishes restrictions on towing practices, such as prohibiting excessive fees, preventing predatory towing, and ensuring that vehicle owners have rights in the towing process. The legislation gives the Department of Public Safety exclusive regulatory jurisdiction over towing services, creates a complaint procedure for consumers, and imposes penalties for violations, including potential misdemeanor charges and civil penalties up to $2,500. Additionally, the bill requires towing companies to obtain a certificate from the Department of Public Safety and meet specific requirements related to insurance, financial responsibility, and business practices.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69664