House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

Currently in Philadelphia, after the owner of a vehicle provides evidence to the Parking Hearing Examiner, if it is determined that a vehicle was towed unlawfully or without reasonable cause, the owner of the vehicle is entitled to the immediate release and return of their vehicle without paying any towing or storage fees. The provision of evidence has proven to be “easier said than done” for many of our constituents. Without a requirement for tow truck operators to provide vehicle owners with clear evidence of a violation, Pennsylvania drivers who abide by our traffic laws have no means to verify their innocence.

Under my legislation, prior to the removal of any illegally parked vehicle in cities of the first class, a tow truck operator would be required to photograph the vehicle to document the violation for which it is being removed. A copy of the photograph would be given to the owner when they claim their vehicle. This simple but necessary measure would ease the appeals process for parking violations in Philadelphia and allow for a fair system that keeps both the drivers in this state and the enforcers of our laws accountable for their actions.

Thank you in advance for your consideration.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact my Harrisburg office at 717-705-1925.