Bill S.235, introduced by Senator Westman, aims to enhance consumer protection in the motor vehicle market by mandating that dealers and repair shops provide accurate service history and diagnostic information to vehicle history databases. The bill establishes a new subchapter in Vermont law, specifically addressing motor vehicle service history, and defines key terms such as "dealer," "repair shop," and "vehicle history information." It requires dealers to disclose any vehicle history information they possess to prospective buyers, ensuring transparency regarding a vehicle's past, including accidents, previous ownership, service history, and odometer readings.
Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of dealers and repair shops when reporting information to vehicle history report providers, emphasizing the need for accuracy in the data provided. Violations of these requirements are classified as violations of existing consumer protection laws, granting the Attorney General the authority to enforce compliance through civil investigations and actions. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2026.