This bill amends Florida Statutes sections 320.64 and 320.641, focusing on the relationship between motor vehicle manufacturers and their franchised dealers. It prohibits manufacturers or their affiliates from establishing performance criteria for dealers that could adversely affect them unless certain conditions are met. Specifically, any criteria must be fair, reasonable, and based on relevant data, and dealers must be provided with a written description of how these criteria are developed before they are enforced. Additionally, the bill protects dealers from retaliatory actions taken by manufacturers if they assert their rights or participate in investigations related to the manufacturers' practices.

The bill also revises the conditions under which the discontinuation, cancellation, nonrenewal, modification, or replacement of franchise agreements is considered unfair. It establishes that such actions must be clearly permitted by the franchise agreement and undertaken in good faith. The burden of proof lies with the manufacturer to demonstrate that their actions are fair. Furthermore, if a dealer is accused of failing to meet sales or service performance obligations, they must be given 180 days to rectify the issue before any termination actions can be initiated. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1820 Filed: 320.67
S 1820 c1: 320.64, 320.641