In the near future I plan to introduce legislation to exempt non-motorized trailers from Pennsylvania’s motor vehicle franchise laws, aligning our statute with most other states. Currently, Pennsylvania is one of the few states where franchise laws apply to non-motorized trailers, even though the trailer industry does not operate under a traditional franchised model. Unlike automobile dealerships, trailer dealers do not pay franchise fees, maintain exclusive branding agreements, or operate under a single manufacturer. These laws impose unnecessary regulatory burdens on both dealers and manufacturers, increasing costs and restricting business operations without adding meaningful consumer protection.

This legislation removes non-motorized trailers from Pennsylvania’s franchise laws while maintaining all existing licensing, tax, and registration requirements. Dealers and salespeople will continue to be licensed, and consumers will still receive protection. The legislation applies only to hauled or drawn trailers without motors and no living quarters, including utility, cargo, dump, tilt, and gooseneck trailers.  These trailers are sold by major retailers like Lowe’s and Tractor Supply, as well as traditional trailer dealers who sell multiple brands.

The franchise model does not reflect the reality of how the trailer industry functions. Pennsylvania’s current law puts our small businesses at a competitive disadvantage compared to other states where these restrictions do not exist. This legislation will eliminate unnecessary restrictions, lower costs, and support Pennsylvania’s based businesses.  I invite you to co-sponsor this commonsense reform to modernize Pennsylvania’s laws and bring them in line with national industry standards.

Please contact my office with any questions you may have.
 

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1532 (Apr 30, 2025): P.L.306, No.84