Bill > H0268

This bill establishes the Vermont Consumer Protection Towing Act, a comprehensive set of regulations designed to protect consumers and promote fair practices in the towing industry. The bill defines various types of towing (emergency, private property, and seizure), sets clear requirements for towing companies, and mandates specific consumer protections. Key provisions include requiring towing companies to be licensed by the Department of Motor Vehicles, maintain insurance, provide detailed written estimates and invoices, take visual documentation before towing, and notify vehicle owners within 24 hours of towing. The bill caps maximum charges for towing and storage, mandates standard business hours, and requires towing companies to accept multiple payment methods. It prohibits predatory practices such as soliciting tows at accident scenes, charging excessive fees, or refusing to release vehicles to owners. Towing companies must now record detailed information about each tow, retain records for three years, and make those records available to law enforcement. The bill also establishes a complaint mechanism through the Department of Motor Vehicles and sets penalties for violations, including potential license revocation. The regulations will take effect on July 1, 2025, with the Department of Motor Vehicles required to adopt implementing rules by June 1, 2026.

Business and Industry

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.268