The proposed Substitute Bill No. 7162 aims to reform the motor vehicle towing statutes in Connecticut by introducing significant changes to existing laws. Key provisions include the repeal of Section 14-145 and its replacement with new definitions that clarify what constitutes a "motor vehicle," specifically excluding authorized emergency vehicles and those leased by governmental agencies. The bill allows property owners to use wrecker services for towing unauthorized vehicles but prohibits them from issuing parking citations or using wheel-locking devices, with certain educational institutions exempt from these restrictions. Additionally, wrecker services must obtain written or electronically transmitted authorization from property owners before towing, with exceptions for vehicles parked in designated areas or posing hazards. The bill also establishes penalties for unauthorized towing actions, classifying them as a class C misdemeanor.

Further amendments include requirements for wrecker services to document the condition of vehicles before towing, notify local police within two hours of towing, and provide written notice to vehicle owners before towing for specific reasons. The bill mandates conspicuous signage in parking facilities, outlines consumer rights regarding towing, and establishes a structured rate schedule for towing services. It also enhances accountability by requiring detailed records of towing activities and allows for the appointment of hearing officers to adjudicate disputes. Overall, the bill seeks to improve transparency, protect consumer rights, and ensure fair practices within the towing industry while balancing the rights of property owners and vehicle owners.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 14-145, 14-145a, 14-66, 14-63, 14-145b, 14-150, 29-23a, 14-145c, 14-145d, 14-66b, 14-51a, 14-64, 14-1
TRA Joint Favorable Substitute: 14-145, 14-145a, 14-66, 14-63, 14-145b, 14-66a, 14-150, 29-23a, 14-145c, 14-145d, 14-66b, 14-51a, 14-64, 14-1
File No. 568: 14-145, 14-145a, 14-66, 14-63, 14-66a, 14-150, 29-23a, 14-145c, 14-145d, 14-66b, 14-51a, 14-64, 14-1
APP Joint Favorable: 14-145, 14-145a, 14-66, 14-63, 14-145b, 14-66a, 14-150, 29-23a, 14-145c, 14-145d, 14-66b, 14-51a, 14-64, 14-1