Sets maximum rates that may be charged for the towing and subsequent storage of a motor vehicle

Showing the cosponsors who are on Agora, A to Z. The official record may list more.

• Democratic6

Shown in neutral colors by design; Agora is non-partisan.

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Jeremy Cooney says this is needed

Legislation that sets a maximum tow and storage rate for passenger and large vehicles is long overdue. New York State ranks a low 40th out of 51 states in towing consumer protections, lacking crucial safeguards found elsewhere in the U.S. Predatory towing often involves excessive, unjustified towing and storage fees set at the sole discretion of towing companies. Towing companies often charge a combination of administra- tive, expressway, fuel surcharge, notification, gate, release, and special equipment fees, which can quickly add up to thousands of dollars in profits for the company to the detriment of consumers. Establishing a maximum tow and storage rate would prevent consumers from being subjected to the exploitative practices of towing companies. This legislation would ensure fair and transparent pricing, fostering trust in towing practices while safeguarding consumers from undue financial hardship. New York City has recognized the burden placed on consumers in the absence of regulatory oversight and has established maximum rates for towing and storage. Vehicles weighing 10,000 pounds or less are subject to a maximum tow rate of $125, while those over 10,000 pounds have a $140 cap. Storage fees are capped at $25 per day for the first three days and $27 per day thereafter. This legislation aims to build on New York City's example by establishing comparable rates and regulations at the state level, ensuring consistent consumer protections across New York. While the prevalence of towing may be higher in New York City, that does not diminish the need for statewide protection. Towing issues are not absent in New York State and the impact on the affected individ- ual can be just as severe. The role of the legislature is not to wait for a crisis to reach NYC-level proportions, but to proactively safe- guard constituents from preventable harm.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.