Vehicle Laws - Towing of Vehicles from Parking Lots - Civil Action for Nonpayment

SB 577 requires towing companies to ask for a valid government photo ID before releasing a vehicle to its owner without payment. It allows towing companies to file civil lawsuits against owners who take vehicles without paying or later dispute credit card payments, but only after a 10-day waiting period. The law also mandates that towing facilities accept cash or major credit cards (with ATMs available if credit cards fail) and prohibits moving towed vehicles between storage facilities for 72 hours. This bill affects parking lot operators, towing companies, and vehicle owners in Maryland, taking effect October 1, 2026.