This bill mandates that towing companies in New Jersey must accept electronically transmitted written authorization from the owner or operator of a towed vehicle to release the vehicle or its contents to a designated third party, which can include insurance companies or collision repair companies. The bill supplements the existing Predatory Towing Prevention Act and aims to streamline the process of vehicle release, particularly in situations where the vehicle is declared a total loss or is being transferred to a repair facility, thereby eliminating the need for the owner or operator to be present in person.

Additionally, the bill requires the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs to issue or amend guidelines to ensure the lawful transfer of property under these new provisions. Violations of the Predatory Towing Prevention Act, which this bill amends, are considered unlawful practices under the consumer fraud act and carry significant penalties, including monetary fines and potential legal actions by the Attorney General. The intent of the sponsors is to simplify the vehicle release process while maintaining consumer protections.