The bill amends the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Act of 1974 to enhance the regulation of motor vehicle repair facilities in Michigan. Key updates include the introduction of new definitions, such as "auxiliary facility," and a requirement for owners to provide verification of compliance with municipal and zoning requirements during the registration process, effective for applicants after July 1, 2025. The bill also mandates that certified mechanics display their certification prominently and outlines conditions for auxiliary facilities to operate without separate registration. Additionally, it modifies the registration process, allowing facilities with gross revenues over $300,000 to renew their registration for 1 to 4 years, contingent upon submitting a renewal application and fee.

Further changes include stipulations regarding customer consent for repair costs, requiring facilities to inform customers of their rights concerning the return of replaced parts. The bill emphasizes transparency by mandating written estimates before work begins and prohibits charging beyond the estimated price without customer consent. It also updates the language in the law to clarify obligations, such as replacing "shall" with "must," and requires facilities to display consumer information signs. The bill specifies that fees collected under the act will be credited to the state’s general fund and establishes an effective date of July 1, 2025, for the new provisions. Overall, these amendments aim to improve compliance, accountability, and consumer protection within the motor vehicle repair industry.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 257.1302