The bill H.329, introduced by Representative Rachelson of Burlington, aims to enhance consumer protections regarding the towing and storage of abandoned motor vehicles in Vermont. Key amendments include redefining what constitutes an abandoned vehicle, increasing the time a vehicle can remain on property without consent from 48 to 96 hours, and clarifying the responsibilities of towing services. The bill mandates that towing services document the identity of the individual requesting the tow, maintain records for three years, and take visual documentation of the vehicle's condition prior to towing. Additionally, it allows vehicle owners or authorized individuals to recover personal items from towed vehicles before paying towing and storage fees.

The legislation also establishes a working group tasked with developing a fair system for the disposal and sale of unclaimed abandoned vehicles. This group will evaluate current procedures, propose potential changes to improve owner identification and notification processes, and explore equitable distribution of proceeds from vehicle sales. The bill sets specific limits on towing fees and storage charges, ensuring they remain reasonable. The provisions of the bill will take effect on July 1, 2026, with the working group established to report its findings by January 15, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 23-2151, 23-2152, 23-2154, 23-2155