Delaware's House Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee has taken a significant step towards enhancing consumer protections for vehicle owners with the support of House Bill 67. During the meeting on March 18, 2025, representatives and advocates voiced their strong backing for the bill, which aims to regulate the towing industry and safeguard the rights of motorists.
AAA's representative expressed gratitude to Representative Ozinski for revisiting the bill, highlighting its alignment with AAA standards for protecting personal property. The bill outlines clear responsibilities for towing companies, ensuring that vehicle owners are treated fairly and transparently.
Miriam Dede, an attorney and executive director of the Tide Shift Justice Project, also spoke in favor of HB 67, emphasizing the bill's potential to provide accountability within the towing industry. Dede noted that losing access to a vehicle can severely impact individuals' daily lives, affecting their ability to work, shop, and care for their families. The proposed legislation includes measures such as requiring visible signage about towing risks, displaying towing rates, and ensuring that car owners can access their belongings from towed vehicles.
Both speakers underscored the importance of the bill in preventing predatory practices by some towing companies, advocating for basic consumer protections that would benefit Delaware residents. The committee's motion to release the bill indicates a positive trajectory towards its potential passage, signaling a commitment to improving the rights of vehicle owners across the state. As discussions continue, the implications of HB 67 could lead to a more equitable towing process, enhancing public trust in the industry.