Connecticut Tightens Towing Sale Rules

A bill that could significantly impact towing operations has passed the Connecticut Senate and now awaits final approval from Gov. Ned Lamont.

The legislation follows reporting by The Connecticut Mirror and ProPublica that criticized existing towing laws as favoring towers, particularly in cases involving low-value vehicles.

Under Senate Bill 413, towing companies will face tighter restrictions on when they can sell unclaimed vehicles. Units must now be at least 15 years old and held for a minimum of 30 days before a sale can proceed. Previously, some vehicles could be processed in as little as 15 days, allowing for faster turnover.

For operators, that means longer storage times, increased lot management considerations, and potential cash flow impacts tied to delayed disposals.

Lawmakers say the goal is to create a more balanced system between consumers and towing providers, but the change will likely require adjustments in how companies handle unclaimed vehicles and fee structures.

The bill also mandates a new DMV-run online portal, which could streamline vehicle location for owners—but may also reduce the number of vehicles that ultimately go unclaimed. Source:https://www.newsfromthestates.com