Bill > H3516

This bill aims to prevent predatory towing fees by requiring the Massachusetts Department of Utilities to establish and maintain a comprehensive, publicly accessible list of approved charges for towing and storage services performed by towing companies under contract with state or local police departments. The bill mandates that the approved fee list include maximum rates for towing services based on vehicle size and weight, storage fees determined by the duration of vehicle storage, and additional service fees for specialized equipment or techniques like winching. The Department of Utilities must review and update this fee list every two years to ensure it reflects current market conditions. Towing companies will be required to strictly adhere to these approved charges when billing vehicle owners, and the Department of Utilities will have the authority to investigate complaints, inspect company records, and impose penalties for non-compliance. Companies found to be in repeated or willful violation could have their police department contracts suspended or revoked. The bill does not limit law enforcement's existing vehicle towing and impoundment authority and is intended to take effect 90-120 days after passage to allow for administrative implementation and public awareness.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3516