The bill amends Iowa's laws regarding abandoned vehicles, specifically updating sections 321.88 and 321.90, while completely rewriting section 321.89 to enhance clarity and organization. Key changes include the establishment of clear procedures for towing and impounding abandoned vehicles, whether they are on public or private property. The bill outlines the responsibilities of police authorities and garagekeepers, including the requirement to send notice to registered owners and lienholders within twenty days of impounding a vehicle. This notice must detail the vehicle's description, location, and the process for reclaiming it, including the payment of fees.

Additionally, the bill specifies the consequences of failing to reclaim an abandoned vehicle within the designated timeframe, which results in the forfeiture of ownership. It also clarifies the process for selling abandoned vehicles, whether for highway use or as scrap, and stipulates how proceeds from such sales should be handled. The bill removes outdated references to specific subsections in the code and consolidates definitions to improve readability and understanding of the law. Overall, the amendments aim to streamline the management of abandoned vehicles while ensuring that the rights of vehicle owners and lienholders are protected.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 321.88, 321.89, 321.90