The bill establishes a new program to compensate registered tow truck operators for releasing vehicles impounded at the direction of law enforcement when the vehicle owner is indigent. It sets specific eligibility criteria for individuals seeking vehicle release, such as being the legal owner, demonstrating indigence, and not having applied for the program more than once in the preceding year. Tow truck operators can apply for payment for eligible impounds by completing a designated form that includes self-certification under penalty of perjury. The Department of Transportation is mandated to report annually on the program's usage and outcomes. Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to clarify that while costs associated with vehicle removal and storage are typically the owner's responsibility, these costs can be waived for eligible individuals under the new program. It also ensures that registered tow truck operators do not retain a lien on vehicles released under this program and requires notifications about impoundment to inform vehicle owners about the new program.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the hearing process related to vehicle impoundment. It specifies that petitioners must pay a filing fee equivalent to that required for filing a suit in district court when requesting a hearing. If the request is not received within a 10-day period, the right to a hearing is waived, and the registered owner becomes liable for any associated charges. The court must notify relevant parties of the hearing date within five days, determining the validity of the impoundment and the appropriateness of fees charged. If the impoundment is deemed proper, fees will be assessed against the requester unless the operator lacked proper authorization. Conversely, if the impoundment is found unlawful, registered owners will not incur fees, and the agency that authorized the impoundment will be liable for costs. The bill also introduces provisions for the sale of abandoned vehicles not redeemed within 15 days of notice, allowing for redemption through payment of fees or completion of a specified form, with updated language clarifying timeframes and processes.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 46.55.115, 46.55.120