The proposed bill would update the regulation of private towing carriers in Arizona by establishing towing rates as a matter of statewide concern, thereby removing the ability for a governing body of an incorporated city, a town or a county board of supervisors from being allowed to regulate the maximum rate and charge for towing, transportation or impounding a vehicle from private property without the vehicle owner's permission by any private towing carriers. This change would restrict the regulation of towing rates for private towing carriers from being subjected to further regulation by a county, city, town or other political subdivision of this state. Towing rates would need to align with those published in the Department of Public Safety's tow service agreement for the specific location, ensuring consistency across the state. Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for private towing carriers, including the necessity to document the nature of the parking violation through date-and-time-stamped digital photographs or videos before towing a vehicle. It mandates that carriers notify law enforcement within one hour of towing a vehicle without the owner's permission and provides detailed information about the tow. The bill also enhances accountability by expanding penalties for violations, making carriers liable for damages in cases of intentional or reckless violations, and requiring itemized receipts for services. Overall, these updates aim to improve transparency and standardization in the private towing industry while centralizing regulatory authority at the state level.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-499.05, 11-251.04, 28-4847