The Pennsylvania State Senate recently passed Senate Bill 779 to address unlawful towing and storage facility practices. SB 779, which passed by a 49-1 vote margin would establish criminal penalties for predatory towers. PA's current towing law/regulations are governed under the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law enforced by the Office of Attorney General, Bureau of Consumer Protection.

SB 779 would enhance enforcement of Pennsylvania's current towing law by incorporating its provisions into the state's criminal Code (Title 18). SB 779 keeps current law in place but broadens future enforcement to state and local police to better protect consumers at times of vulnerability. By elevating violations of the law to criminal offenses, SB 779 aims to discourage non-consensual towing, require greater clarity in how fees are presented and billed, ensure towing companies accept more than just cash payments, and support the timely return of vehicles to their owners to avoid unnecessary hardship.

Although SB 779 does not address all of PMTA's concerns with abusive practices by some unscrupulous towers, PMTA supports SB 779 because the legislation would enhance protections and help ensure that towing practices are conducted ethically and transparently.

The future of SB 779 is not yet known as it is currently in the PA House of Representatives. PMTA will monitor the bill’s progress and update members as appropriate.