Bill > S2779

This bill proposes several updates to Massachusetts laws governing vehicle towing and storage, focusing on consumer protections and payment regulations. The bill modifies definitions related to the Department of Public Utilities and updates requirements for towing and storage facilities. Key provisions include mandating that storage facilities allow vehicle owners to retrieve personal belongings at no charge, requiring facilities to post and publicly disclose their hours of operation, and establishing payment flexibility by requiring facilities to accept multiple payment methods including credit/debit cards, cash, and electronic money transfers. The bill also prohibits surcharges for non-cash payments and requires towing facilities to provide itemized invoices for removal and storage charges. Additionally, the legislation stipulates that when a vehicle is towed from private property, the notice must include current removal and storage fees and a photograph of the vehicle's location. The Department of Public Utilities is given authority to determine maximum storage periods and regulate related charges, with a clear emphasis on transparency and fair treatment of vehicle owners during the towing and storage process.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2779