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HB 2214

Trespass towing fees; State Corporation Commission to establish, etc.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Laura Jane Cohen and 1 co-sponsor

Authorizes Virginia's State Corporation Commission to regulate and establish maximum fees for private property trespass towing to prevent excessive charges.

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Bill Summary · HB 2214

Legislative bill overview

HB 2214 would authorize the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) to establish and regulate fees charged by towing companies for removing vehicles from private property (trespass towing). Currently, towing fees for unauthorized vehicles on private lots lack state-level regulation, leaving pricing largely uncontrolled. The bill aims to create standardized fee structures to protect consumers from excessive charges.

Why is this important

Trespass towing disproportionately affects lower-income Virginians who may face unexpected, unaffordable removal fees when parking on private property. Without regulation, towing operators can charge whatever the market will bear, sometimes exceeding $500 per vehicle in a single transaction. Establishing SCC oversight could prevent predatory pricing while maintaining legitimate property owner protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. consumer protection: Private property owners and towing companies argue they should set their own rates without government interference; consumer advocates counter that monopolistic practices necessitate regulation.
  • SCC jurisdiction scope: Debate exists over whether an administrative agency designed for utilities regulation is appropriate for towing industry oversight, or if another body would be better suited.
  • Economic impact on towing industry: Smaller towing operators worry that rate caps could reduce profitability and service availability, particularly in rural areas with low call volumes.

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

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