Vermont House Bill H0346

Vermont 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/25/25
• Refer: 2/25/25

Caption

An act relating to charges for towing and storage of motor vehicles belonging to crime victims

Impact

In modifying existing statutes, specifically 23 V.S.A. § 2155 and § 2154, the bill encourages the establishment of clearer guidelines around towing fees. By setting maximum rates for towing and storage, the bill seeks to protect vehicle owners from excessive charges that can arise from the towing of abandoned vehicles. The intent is to relieve financial burdens on crime victims while ensuring that the towing industry maintains fair compensation for their services.

Summary

House Bill 0346 aims to address the issue of towing and storage charges for abandoned motor vehicles, specifically focusing on the burdens faced by crime victims. The bill proposes to establish maximum reasonable rates for the towing and storage of such vehicles, ensuring that victims of theft are not held liable for the associated costs when their vehicles are towed. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to consumer protection and aims to provide relief to individuals who have already been victimized by crime.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential financial implications for the towing industry and municipalities that may face shortfalls in revenue due to the imposed fee caps. Additionally, the bill creates a working group tasked with identifying funding mechanisms to reimburse towing services for costs incurred in removing and storing vehicles that have been reported stolen. Critics may raise concerns about the feasibility of adequately funding this reimbursement process, as well as the broader implications for local regulations governing towing practices.