WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Bill to cap towing fees clears key committee hurdle

OLYMPIA: State Representative Gerry Pollet’s (D-North Seattle) legislation to place a cap on towing fees when cars are impounded from private parking lots is one step closer to the Governor’s desk. Yesterday evening the House Transportation Committee passed the consumer protection bill with bipartisan support, 23-6.

“This bill will ensure that no one is held hostage by astronomical impound fees, while protecting towing companies that work to keep their fees at a reasonable rate,” said Rep. Pollet. “I applaud representatives from the towing industry for recognizing that there are some abuses in their industry and coming to the table to find a solution that is good for everyone.”

The legislation comes on the heels of widespread reports of price-gouging by towing companies across the state.

Among those who testified in favor of the bill was a woman who was charged over $600 to reclaim her son’s wheelchair access van after it was parked briefly in a store lot due to snow. Others testifying reported towing impound fees upwards of $2,000.

Rep. Pollet is hopeful that the bill will reach Governor Gregoire’s desk by the end of the legislative session on March 9th.