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Councilmember Salamanca introduces bill to speed towing of abandoned vehicles
Summary
Council Member Rafael Salamanca introduced Intro 857 to require the Department of Sanitation to tow vehicles that are an encumbrance on streets within 72 hours of NYPD notification; the bill was presented at the joint hearing but not voted on.
Council Member Rafael Salamanca introduced proposed legislation, Intro 857, at a joint legislative hearing of the committees on Transportation and Infrastructure and Consumer and Worker Protection on April 10, 2025. The introductory resolution would require the New York City Department of Sanitation to tow vehicles that are an encumbrance on city streets within 72 hours of notification by the New York City Police Department.
Salamanca framed the bill as a public‑space and safety measure. “This legislation is not about tidying up our curbs,” he said. “It's about reclaiming public space, ensuring safety, and restoring fairness to how our streets are used.” He cited problems with abandoned, inoperable and improperly parked vehicles that block curb space used for deliveries, bus stops, fire hydrants and other critical access.
The legislation was introduced for committee consideration during the hearing; no committee vote or final action occurred at the session. Council members signaled interest in the measure and asked for further briefings and drafting details. The bill’s text and committee referral were entered into the hearing record; next steps would follow the council’s normal committee deliberation process.
Speakers quoted “This legislation sets a clear, reasonable time frame for action,” — Council Member Rafael Salamanca (Intro 857 sponsor).
Actions - Intro 857 was formally introduced and presented to the joint committees. Outcome at hearing: no action/vote; further committee consideration anticipated.
Context The towing proposal was presented amid broader testimony about street use and public space during the Dining Out NYC hearing; council members and administration officials said they would consider the bill as part of continuing oversight of curb and roadway management.
