The proposed bill would significantly revise the current statutes governing private towing carriers in Arizona by establishing statewide standards for towing rates and practices. Currently, counties, cities, and towns have the authority to regulate the maximum rates for towing from private properties. The bill would remove the ability of counties, cities, and towns to regulate the maximum rate and charge for towing, making the regulation of towing rates a statewide concern. If local governments do not set their own rates by January 1, 2026, the rates will default to those published in the Department of Public Safety (DPS) tow service agreement. Additionally, any existing local regulations must be updated to align with market standards or the DPS rates by July 1, 2027. Furthermore, the bill introduces new requirements for private towing carriers, including the necessity to document towing incidents with digital photography, notify law enforcement within one hour of a tow, and provide detailed receipts to vehicle owners. It also mandates that the Department of Public Safety (DPS) investigate complaints against private towing carriers, enforce applicable rates, and conduct audits based on complaints or patterns of violations. The bill establishes a Heavy-Duty Truck Towing Study Committee to review practices related to larger vehicles and requires DPS to report on the establishment of a towing compliance and enforcement unit by December 31, 2026. Overall, these updates aim to enhance oversight and ensure fair practices within the private towing industry across the state.

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