Jefferson City, Mo. — State Rep. Dave Griffith (R) reintroduced HB2214 this session, a measure that would let truck drivers lodge formal complaints if they suspect a tow company overcharged them for a non‑consensual tow.
The proposal arrives at a time when Missouri law bars operators from contesting tow fees, leaving owner‑operators and fleet managers with little recourse after a vehicle is impounded. Drivers who travel OTR routes often encounter tow incidents in remote counties, and the lack of a grievance process has long been a sore spot for the trucking community.
Backing the bill, the Missouri‑based Owner‑Operator Independent Drivers Association and the Missouri Trucking Association argue that the legislation would force towing firms to provide a signed release form and an itemized receipt before returning cargo. Starting Oct. 1, the bill would also require a security deposit equal to 30% of the combined towing and storage charges, a safeguard meant to deter excessive billing. The measure echoes similar protections in neighboring states. Governor Mike Parson vetoed a comparable effort in 2021, calling the Joint Committee on Transportation’s authority over tow rates “legally problematic.” OOIDA state affairs director Doug Morris warned that existing safeguards already protect drivers and that the new rules could cripple legitimate small towing businesses.
What This Means for Drivers
CDL‑A drivers and owner‑operators would gain a formal channel to dispute inflated tow fees, potentially saving thousands of dollars on long hauls. The required documentation could speed up the release of a truck, but the 30% security hold may tie up cash that drivers need for fuel, permits, or payroll. Fleet managers will have to adjust budgeting practices to accommodate the deposit, and OTR truck drivers may face longer downtimes while paperwork is processed.
Industry Reaction
The OOIDA and Missouri Trucking Association praised the bill as a long‑overdue correction to a market ripe with predatory practices. Doug Morris, however, cautioned that the legislation might burden small tow operators, risking reduced service availability in rural areas. Towing companies expressed concern that the security requirement could deter owners from paying legitimate charges promptly, potentially leading to increased storage fees.
Key Points
- HB2214 would allow drivers to file complaints against alleged overcharges for non‑consensual tows.
- Companies must provide a signed release and an itemized receipt before returning impounded goods.
- Effective Oct. 1, a 30% security deposit of towing and storage fees would be mandatory.
- Governor Parson vetoed a similar bill in 2021, citing jurisdictional issues over tow rate regulation.
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