House Bill No. [insert number] proposes an annual automatic adjustment to the maximum fee that motor vehicle dealers can charge for various services, including credit investigation and compliance with legal requirements. The bill amends R.S. 6:969.18(A)(2)(a) to establish a new base maximum fee of $425, which will be adjusted annually based on the cumulative percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) as reported by the U.S. Department of Labor. The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles is tasked with calculating and providing the adjusted fee by January 14 of each year, with specific rounding rules for any adjustment amounts.

The fee adjustment mechanism will take effect on January 1, 2026, allowing for a systematic increase in fees that reflects inflation and economic changes. This legislative change aims to ensure that the fees charged by motor vehicle dealers remain relevant and fair over time, while also providing clarity on the calculation process and the responsibilities of the Office of Motor Vehicles. The bill will become effective upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for gubernatorial action if not signed.

Statutes affected:
HB476 Original: 6:18(A)(2)