The bill amends Chapter 31-5.1 of the General Laws, which regulates business practices among motor vehicle manufacturers, distributors, and dealers. Key provisions include allowing a designated family member of a deceased or incapacitated dealership owner to succeed to ownership, provided they notify the relevant parties within 120 days and agree to the franchise's terms. If a manufacturer, distributor, or factory branch has good cause to refuse the succession, they must provide written notice within 60 days. The bill also establishes requirements for manufacturers and distributors to notify existing dealers when establishing or relocating a dealership, allowing for protests and hearings to assess good cause for such actions. Additionally, it clarifies that reopening a dealership in a relevant market area is treated as establishing a new dealership.
Further amendments include the introduction of obligations for manufacturers, distributors, and factory branches regarding warranty agreements and compensation for dealers. The bill specifies that these entities must provide fair compensation for warranty work and outlines a timeline for claims submission. It also prohibits manufacturers and distributors from recovering costs through increased wholesale prices related to parts and labor reimbursements. The bill mandates that dealers be compensated for recall repairs at their retail rates and establishes protections against chargebacks for minor errors. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the operational framework for motor vehicle dealerships, ensuring fair treatment and accountability among all parties involved in the industry.