In an ongoing effort at the Missouri statehouse, there is a renewed push to empower truck drivers with the ability to file complaints if they suspect they were overcharged for nonconsensual tows. Despite facing setbacks from the governor on multiple occasions, Representative Dave Griffith, R-Jefferson City, is persistently championing this cause, aiming to address concerns across the spectrum of truck operations.
The Missouri-based Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) and the Missouri Trucking Association stand in support of this initiative, emphasizing the need for trucking operators to have recourse in cases of perceived overcharging during nonconsensual tows. Currently, state law prohibits operators from filing complaints in such instances.
Griffith’s bill, HB2214, not only seeks to rectify this limitation but also introduces additional provisions to enhance protection and recourse for third parties. Companies holding or storing impounded goods would be allowed to require owners to complete documentation indicating the release of property, coupled with the mandatory provision of an itemized receipt.
Furthermore, the bill introduces a significant change concerning the release of commercial vehicles from towing company possession. Starting Oct. 1, a 30% security requirement of the charges for towing and storage would be imposed.
Proponents of the bill argue that it safeguards individuals from exorbitant charges and brings Missouri in line with other states that have similar protections. They believe this legislation is a necessary step toward preventing unfair practices during nonconsensual tows.
However, critics express concerns, particularly in relation to potential negative impacts on small towing businesses. Doubts arise about the practicality of truck owners returning to pay outstanding charges, raising questions about the viability of the proposed legislation.
This is not the first time such legislation has been proposed. In 2021, a similar bill aimed at providing additional consumer protections for truckers facing unscrupulous towing operators faced a gubernatorial veto. Governor Mike Parson deemed the proposal legally problematic, questioning the ability of the Joint Committee on Transportation to regulate towing rates.
Doug Morris, OOIDA director of state government affairs, said that existing safeguards are sufficient and that the proposed legislation could burden legitimate towing businesses without further enhancing consumer protections.
“The only thing stopping the Missouri bill from passing is the fact that the governor refuses to sign the bill and continues to support the unfair practices of predatory towers,” Morris said.
With the bill, once again, awaiting assignment to committee this year, OOIDA remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for truck drivers and providing greater protection and recourse from nonconsensual tows.
Source: Land Line
