Sen. Nangle bill to protect Mainers from unfair parking practices heads to the Governor’s desk

AUGUSTA — On Thursday, June 12, the Maine Senate voted to enact legislation from Sen. Tim Nangle, D–Windham, that would provide new consumer protections against unfair and deceptive parking enforcement practices. LD 1794, “An Act to Provide Protection from Unfair Parking Tickets on Lots Accessible to the Public,” sets clear standards for what parking operators can and cannot do when issuing tickets on private lots.

“Too many Mainers have been surprised by hidden fees or chased down by out-of-state collections agencies over unclear or unfair parking rules,” said Sen. Nangle. “This bill says enough is enough. It’s about making sure parking enforcement is honest, transparent and fair — especially when it’s happening on lots that look and feel like public spaces.”

Under the bill, any fines or fees must be reasonable, clearly posted at entrances and exits and accompanied by proper written notice to the vehicle’s registered owner. The bill also prohibits the use of automated license plate recognition systems in most cases and classifies violations of these provisions as a violation of the Maine Unfair Trade Practices Act.

LD 1794 passed with bipartisan support in both chambers and now heads to the desk of Gov. Janet Mills, who has 10 days to sign it, veto it or allow it to become law without her signature.

Sen. Nangle is serving his second term in the Maine Senate, representing Casco, Frye Island, Raymond, Windham and part of Westbrook. He serves as Senate Chair of the Transportation Committee and sits on the Health and Human Services Committee.