This bill amends Iowa's laws regarding the handling of abandoned vehicles, specifically focusing on the notice and reclamation processes. It reduces the timeframe for a police authority or private entity to send notice of custody from 20 days to 5 days after taking possession of an abandoned vehicle. Conversely, it extends the reclaiming period for individuals receiving notice from 10 days to 20 days. The bill also mandates that entities provide an itemized account of all fees associated with reclaiming a vehicle and allows individuals to reclaim personal property from the vehicle at no cost during normal business hours without needing to reclaim the vehicle itself.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that protect the rights of vehicle owners and claimants. If proper notice and an opportunity to inspect the vehicle are not provided, individuals do not forfeit their rights to reclaim the vehicle or any personal property within it. The bill also stipulates that if an abandoned vehicle is sold without the required notices being given, the selling entity must pay any remaining loan amount to the lienholder. Overall, these changes aim to enhance transparency and fairness in the process of dealing with abandoned vehicles.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 321.89, 321.90