Pittsburgh Police Chief Nate Harper joined representatives of the insurance industry and AAA this morning in calling for additional restrictions on towing companies.

Chief Harper called tougher measures "long overdue."

Councilman Doug Shields is chairing a meeting on local and state efforts to rein in predatory fees and other abusive towing practices.

Mr. Shields has introduced a bill that would license towing companies and tow-truck drivers who work in the city. He hinted that licenses could be revoked for bad behavior.

State Rep. Tony DeLuca, D-Penn Hills, has introduced a bill that would require towing companies statewide to disclose fees, accept credit cards and make sure customers know where their cars are being towed.

Mr. DeLuca, who attended today's meeting, said cash transactions increase the possibility that governments won't "get their fair share of tax dollars."

Jodi Insana, an investigator with National Insurance Crime Bureau, and Brian Newbacher, director of public affairs for AAA East Central, said they supported both bills.

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