House Bill No. [insert bill number] seeks to amend Montana's motor vehicle laws by prohibiting manufacturers and distributors from compelling new motor vehicle dealers to sell electric vehicles or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. The bill declares any contract provisions that contravene this prohibition as void, reinforcing public policy against coercive practices. It also amends Section 61-4-208 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to explicitly include electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles in the list of items that cannot be forced upon dealers, thereby enhancing the rights of franchisees and promoting a fairer marketplace.

Additionally, the bill maintains existing restrictions on manufacturers and related entities from owning or operating dealerships, while allowing for temporary dealership operations during ownership transitions for up to one year, provided that the sale approval is not unreasonably withheld. It also permits these entities to hold an interest in a dealership, contingent upon a genuine business relationship with an independent investor. The bill includes a codification instruction to ensure that these new provisions are integrated into Title 61, chapter 4 of the MCA, solidifying their place within the state's legal framework governing motor vehicle dealerships.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 61-4-208
HB0550_1(1): 61-4-208
HB0550_1: 61-4-208