PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — A new law signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro on Monday requires changes for tow truck drivers in the city of Philadelphia.

Under the new law, towing companies must collect photographic evidence of parking violations from the vehicles they tow.

State lawmakers passed the bill after Philadelphia motorists found it difficult to prove their vehicles were towed unreasonably.

“This is a safety mechanism for people who live in Philadelphia and visit Philadelphia,” said Democratic state Rep. Jose Giral, who represents Kensington, Port Richmond and Juniata Park in the 180th District. “That way they can feel safe about parking somewhere.”

Giral introduced the bill in 2023 as House Bill 816, and it passed the Pennsylvania Senate 50-0 on July 2. The law is now known as Act 43.

Once the bill becomes law, people attending a hearing on a parking ticket will be able to present more evidence to support their case.

“This benefits everyone involved: the courts, drivers and towing companies. It also brings more accountability and transparency to our city,” Giral said in an emailed statement.

The bill also gives the Philadelphia Parking Authority the authority to impose penalties on towing companies that violate the new law.

We asked the PPA for comments on what could change as a result of signing this bill.

The law is expected to go into effect in 60 days in September.