HONOLULU (KHON2) — A new state law is making it harder for towing companies in Hawaiʻi to overcharge or take advantage of drivers. House Bill 1577, also known as the Tow Truck Bill, became law as Act 060 on June 21, 2024; and it went into effect on June 24 the same year.
So, why haven’t you heard of this?
Representative Darius Kila (D-44), who introduced the bill with a colleague, Representative Rachele Fernandez Lamosao (D-36), said he is receiving requests from the public to create a bill that tackles exactly what his Tow Truck Bill covered.
“I’ve seen lots of people posting, asking for help,” said Rep. Kila. “I think we need to get the word out.”
But, for some reason, the word has not gotten out around the islands. Let’s take a look at how the law protects you.
Protecting vehicle owners
The law sets firm limits on what tow truck companies can charge. Standard tow fees are now capped at $65 for regular towing or $75 when a dolly is used.
There is a mileage charge of $7.50 per mile and daily storage fees. If a car is difficult to access, companies can add a $30 fee.
An extra $15 may be charged for towing during overnight hours or weekends. These are the only fees allowed unless the vehicle is overturned or off-road.
If a car is overturned, companies may now charge an extra $35. This change was included in the new law. It’s the only new type of surcharge that is allowed.
“We created this bill to protect both drivers and the tow truck companies that are operating above board, of which there are many,” explained Rep. Kila. ‘
No more forced ATM runs
Under HB 1577, towing companies must accept cash, credit cards or debit cards. They are not allowed to require customers to use on-site ATMs.
This rule was created to prevent towing businesses from adding extra fees or creating payment barriers.
The law also requires towing companies to notify the legal owner and last registered owner of the vehicle within 15 to 20 days after the tow, depending on the situation.
If they do not send proper notice, the car owner does not have to pay any towing or storage fees.
You can click here to read the bill.
This law is now part of the Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes under sections 290-11 and 291C-165.5. It applies to all towing companies operating in the state.