Bill > HF2322

This bill establishes new regulations for towing a motor vehicle without the owner's consent, distinct from existing laws concerning abandoned vehicles. It mandates that the towing entity must notify the relevant law enforcement agency within two hours of towing and the registered owner and any lienholder within 48 hours, providing the location for vehicle retrieval. The bill also ensures that owners can reclaim personal property from their towed vehicle without paying any fees. Before selling or disposing of a non-consensually towed vehicle, the owner and lienholder must be notified at least 48 hours in advance, and the vehicle cannot be sold for the first 45 days after towing, unless it's being sold for junk to a demolisher. Storage fees are capped at the vehicle's value, and payment plans must be offered to individuals with limited financial resources. Vehicle owners are granted the right to a hearing with the Department of Transportation to dispute the tow or associated fees before a sale. Finally, any proceeds from the sale of the vehicle, after deducting reasonable towing, notice, and storage costs, must be returned to the owner or lienholder within 90 days. Failure to comply with these provisions will result in a simple misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and fines.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF2322