This bill establishes new regulations for towing and impounding vehicles in Iowa, particularly focusing on the towing of vehicles without the owner's consent. It mandates that individuals towing vehicles must post clear signage on private property, document the towing process with photographs, and maintain accurate records of the vehicle being towed. If the vehicle owner arrives before the tow is completed, the towing must cease, and the owner can reclaim their vehicle for a fee not exceeding $20. The bill also stipulates that the towing entity must notify the vehicle owner and local law enforcement within 24 hours, provide an itemized account of fees, and allow the owner to retrieve personal property from the vehicle without charge.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding abandoned vehicles, reducing the notice period for informing owners about the custody of their vehicles from 20 days to 10 days, while extending the reclaiming period from 10 days to 30 days. It requires entities in custody of abandoned vehicles to provide an itemized account of fees and allows for the inspection of the vehicle upon request. The bill also changes the handling of proceeds from the sale of abandoned vehicles, directing any remaining funds to the general fund of the local authority rather than the road use tax fund, and ensures that proper notice must be given to avoid forfeiture of rights to the vehicle or personal property. Violations of these regulations are classified as simple misdemeanors.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 321.89, 321.90