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Bill

Bill

SB 295

AN ACT CONCERNING THE RATES AND CHARGES FOR NONCONSENSUAL TOWING.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Craig Fishbein and 1 co-sponsor

SB 295 establishes rate controls on nonconsensual towing charges in Connecticut to prevent excessive fees and protect consumers from unexpected costs.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Transportation
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Bill Summary · SB 295

Legislative bill overview

SB 295 regulates the rates and charges that towing companies can impose for nonconsensual towing services in Connecticut. The bill addresses pricing practices for vehicle tows performed without owner consent, such as tows from private property or for traffic violations. This legislation aims to protect consumers from excessive towing fees by establishing rate controls or transparency requirements.

Why is this important

Nonconsensual towing is a significant financial burden for vehicle owners who often have limited choice in service providers and face unexpected costs. Excessive towing rates can disproportionately affect lower-income individuals and create opportunities for predatory pricing, particularly in cases involving private property towing or municipal enforcement actions. Regulating these charges addresses a consumer protection gap in an industry where market competition is limited.

Potential points of contention

  • Towing industry impact: Towing companies may argue that rate caps reduce profitability, discourage service availability, or prevent cost recovery in rural areas with longer towing distances
  • Scope definition: Disagreement over which towing scenarios qualify as "nonconsensual" and how emergency services, after-hours work, or specialized equipment fees should be treated
  • Enforcement mechanism: Uncertainty about whether Connecticut can effectively enforce rate regulations across multiple towing operators and how compliance will be monitored and violations penalized

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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