87R10258 BEE-D
By: Dominguez H.B. No. 3143
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to requiring the release of certain vehicles by tow truck
operators.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. The heading to Subchapter J, Chapter 2308,
Occupations Code, is amended to read as follows:
SUBCHAPTER J. RIGHTS OF OWNERS AND OPERATORS OF CERTAIN [STORED OR
BOOTED] VEHICLES
SECTION 2. Subchapter J, Chapter 2308, Occupations Code, is
amended by adding Section 2308.4501 to read as follows:
Sec. 2308.4501. RELEASE OF CERTAIN VEHICLES BY TOW TRUCK
OPERATORS REQUIRED. The operator of a tow truck preparing to
perform a nonconsent tow shall release a vehicle to the owner or
operator of the vehicle if:
(1) the vehicle has not been moved from the site from
which it is to be towed;
(2) the vehicle is fully prepared to be towed legally
over a public road or highway; and
(3) the owner or operator of the vehicle pays a fee of
not more than $50 to the operator of the tow truck.
SECTION 3. Not later than December 1, 2021, the Texas
Department of Licensing and Regulation shall adopt rules as
necessary to implement Section 2308.4501, Occupations Code, as
added by this Act.
SECTION 4. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b) of this
section, this Act takes effect January 1, 2022.
(b) Section 3 of this Act takes effect September 1, 2021.