PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. — The Prince George’s County Council passed a new bill that will allow some convicted felons to bid on police department towing contracts.
The bill could also mean work would have to be distributed among more towing companies and employees in the county, a move some business owners fear may cause prices to increase to make up for lost revenue.
County council said the bill is a way to welcome returning citizens into the workforce while also giving them an equal chance for employment.
“If we can have people convicted sitting in council and making laws, we can definitely have them towing a car,” one resident said.
Several residents and towing business owners spoke at the council meeting to express their concerns.
“It just doesn’t sit well, especially in this industry. We are not trying to be looked at as convicted felons and stuff of that nature,” one business owner said.
Council members said the convicted felons would work for the towing company, in the office or taking calls but not actually drive the tow truck, until after a certain period of time has passed.
Tabish Nawaz, a Prince George's County business owner said he supports equal opportunity as long as all rules and regulations are followed.
“My only concern, is pretty much, having a criminal someone with a felony fresh out of prison just being able to bid on contracts," Nawaz explained. "After being clarified, it looks like you have to wait a certain amount, five years I think. Once you have showed you have been a good citizen in PG County, you haven’t done any crime, you should be able to bid on police towing or any other contracts.”
The new bill would also require police department contracts to be updated annually with no option for extension.