New bill would stop NYC from towing cars for unpaid tickets

Brooklyn Councilman David Greenfield has introduced a bill to stop the city from towing cars for outstanding parking tickets or violating No Parking signs (unless the vehicle poses a public safety hazard). 
 

Under the current system, the city can tow cars with over $350 in unpaid parking tickets, and charge their owners a $185 towing fee.  Under the new legislation, cars would be prevented from moving using a tire boot; drivers would call in and pay their fines plus a $50 processing fee.  Once the tickets are paid, the drivers receive a code that unlocks the boot and they’re free to go- as long as they return the boot.

Cars could still be towed under the new bill for leaving the booted car for over 72 hours, or parking in certain No Parking zones.