On April 7, 2025, the Connecticut State Legislature introduced House Bill 7162, aimed at enhancing regulations surrounding the towing of motor vehicles. The bill seeks to address concerns regarding transparency and accountability in the towing industry, particularly in relation to the documentation and practices of wrecker services.

Key provisions of House Bill 7162 include stringent requirements for wrecker services to maintain detailed records of each tow. This includes the registration numbers of towed vehicles and wreckers, the dates and times of towing, locations of origin and destination, mileage of the wrecker, and the charges incurred. Additionally, the bill mandates that wrecker services retain these records for three years and make them available for inspection by law enforcement officials.

The legislation also stipulates that wrecker service owners must keep copies of contracts authorizing the towing of vehicles from private properties or repossessions, ensuring that these documents are accessible to vehicle owners and lending institutions upon request. Furthermore, the bill allows for the electronic maintenance of records, provided they can be produced in written format upon request.

Debate surrounding House Bill 7162 has highlighted concerns from various stakeholders. Supporters argue that the bill will protect consumers from potential abuses in the towing industry, such as unauthorized tows and inflated charges. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the administrative burden it may impose on small wrecker businesses and the potential for increased costs that could be passed on to consumers.

The implications of this bill are significant, as it aims to foster greater consumer protection and industry accountability. Experts suggest that if passed, it could lead to a more regulated towing environment in Connecticut, potentially reducing disputes between vehicle owners and towing companies. The bill is currently under review, with further discussions anticipated in the coming weeks as lawmakers weigh its potential impact on the state's towing practices.