New Jersey Assembly Bill A2011

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Prohibits towing companies from requiring owners of stolen motor vehicles to pay fee to release vehicles from storage facilities under certain circumstances.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2011 seeks to amend the 'Predatory Towing Prevention Act' by prohibiting towing companies from charging owners of stolen motor vehicles a fee to release their vehicles from storage facilities under specific conditions. This legislation stipulates that if an owner provides a copy of the police report confirming that their vehicle is stolen, towing companies cannot levy charges for retrieving the vehicle within a stipulated timeframe. This bill aims to reduce the financial burden on victims of vehicle theft, particularly those already facing challenges due to the loss of their vehicle.  The bill provides a crucial 72-hour window for vehicle owners to recover their stolen vehicles without incurring fees, reinforcing the notion that individuals should not bear extra financial disadvantages when their property has been unlawfully taken. After the 72-hour period, towing companies are permitted to charge fees for storage that exceed this timeframe. Importantly, any fees required for the release of the vehicle are to be covered either by the vehicle's insurance or, if uninsured, by the State Motor Vehicle Commission. The implications of this bill highlight the legislative intent to support vehicle owners amidst the rising incidents of motor vehicle theft in New Jersey. It emphasizes the necessity for states to adjust their legal frameworks to ensure victims are not further victimized by additional fees during the recovery process. However, the measure also reinforces existing laws regulating towing practices while providing necessary protections for victims. Discussion surrounding this bill may include potential pushback from towing companies concerned about lost revenue, as well as debates about whether the law strikes an appropriate balance between protecting consumers and allowing towing companies to operate sustainably. The stakeholders are expected to evaluate how the proposed changes will impact the broader regulatory environment surrounding motoring laws and towing industry practices in New Jersey.