Bill > SB2888

This bill brings forward Section 85-7-251 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, which outlines the process for towing companies to store and sell vehicles when owners haven't paid towing and storage fees. The existing law states that owners are responsible for these costs and that towing companies can hold onto the vehicle until paid. It also details the steps towing companies must take to notify owners and lienholders (those with a financial interest in the vehicle) about the charges and potential sale, including reporting the tow to law enforcement, attempting to identify owners and lienholders, sending registered mail notices, and publishing sale notices in a newspaper. If the owner doesn't reclaim the vehicle within a specified time after these notifications, the towing company can sell it at public auction. Any money left over after covering towing, storage, and sale expenses is held for six months, after which it goes to the county if unclaimed. The bill emphasizes that towing companies must make a "good faith effort" to comply with these procedures, or they may not be able to charge for storage or towing. It also requires towing companies to keep accurate records for three years. The purpose of bringing this section forward is to allow for amendments or potential repeal related to due-process concerns, meaning how fairly the process protects the rights of vehicle owners and lienholders. This act will take effect on July 1, 2026.

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https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/SB/SB2888.xml