Iowa House Bill HF2219

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Refer: 1/30/24

Caption

A bill for an act relating to abandoned vehicles, and making penalties applicable.

Impact

The proposed legislation significantly alters the existing framework surrounding abandoned vehicles, impacting both vehicle owners and towing companies. For vehicle owners, the expanded reclamation period offers enhanced protection and clarity regarding their rights. The bill also protects vehicle owners from incurring unnecessary costs, as it prohibits towing companies from charging storage fees for the first 24 hours after impoundment. Additionally, it allows individuals the right to reclaim personal property from the vehicle without needing to retrieve the vehicle itself, making the process more user-friendly and accessible to those affected.

Summary

House File 2219 relates to the management of abandoned vehicles and establishes specific guidelines for their custody and reclamation. The bill amends existing statutes to increase the timeframe for vehicle owners to reclaim their vehicles from 10 to 30 days after receiving notice from a police authority or private entity that their vehicle has been taken into custody. This extended period is designed to provide vehicle owners more opportunity to retrieve their vehicles without incurring penalties or losing ownership rights. Moreover, the bill imposes new requirements on how and when notice must be given to vehicle owners, mandating that notices include detailed information such as the reason for impoundment, photographic evidence, and evidence of illegal parking if applicable.

Contention

Notably, while the bill seeks to strengthen protections for vehicle owners, it also introduces new liabilities for private entities involved in towing operations. The bill stipulates that owners, lienholders, and claimants can pursue legal action against private entities if they do not act reasonably or in good faith when dealing with custodied vehicles. This provision aims to ensure accountability within the towing industry but may lead to contention regarding the interpretation of 'reasonable' actions. Additionally, the balance of power between vehicle owners and towing companies will be a central theme in discussions surrounding the bill as both sides will seek to voice their concerns during the legislative process.