Bill > H931

This bill introduces new regulations for towing companies in North Carolina to prevent predatory practices, establishing several key consumer protections. The bill requires towing fees to be reasonable and clearly disclosed, prohibits towing vehicles to locations where they cannot be recovered within 24 hours, and restricts storage fee charges to times when the towing company is actually open. Towing companies must accept multiple payment methods (debit card, credit card, and cash) and limit payment processing fees to no more than 2% of the total owed amount. The Utilities Commission is granted authority to investigate potential violations, assess civil penalties up to $5,000 per violation, and take enforcement actions against non-compliant towing companies. The bill also empowers the commission to evaluate the reasonableness of fees by considering factors like service cost proportionality and the reason for the fee. Importantly, any violation of these new regulations will be considered an unfair and deceptive trade practice, providing additional legal recourse for consumers. The new regulations will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving towing companies time to adapt to the new requirements.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H931