Bill > H0346

This bill establishes new protections and guidelines for towing and storing motor vehicles that have been reported as stolen. The legislation sets maximum reasonable rates for towing abandoned vehicles, capping the towing fee at $130.00 or $4.50 per mile (whichever is greater) and limiting storage charges to $35.00 per day. Critically, the bill provides relief for crime victims by exempting them from towing and storage fees when their stolen vehicle is impounded, including waiving fees for up to seven days after the second notice is sent to the vehicle owner. Additionally, the bill creates a working group composed of the Treasurer, Attorney General, Commissioner of Motor Vehicles, and the Executive Director for the Center for Crime Victim Services to study and recommend funding mechanisms to reimburse towing services and municipalities for costs incurred when storing stolen vehicles. The working group is required to submit a report to legislative committees by November 15, 2025, and will dissolve on December 31, 2025. The provisions related to towing fees and stolen vehicle procedures will take effect on July 1, 2026, while the working group provisions take effect immediately upon passage.

Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.346