The bill amends section 17A-6A-10 of the Code of West Virginia to enhance protections for motor vehicle dealers against unfair practices by manufacturers, distributors, and factory branches. It explicitly prohibits these entities from requiring dealers to order vehicles or parts not voluntarily requested, participating unreasonably in advertising costs, or coercing dealers into making facility improvements. Additionally, any changes to dealer agreements must be mutually agreed upon, and manufacturers are required to provide reasonable justifications for alterations to financial requirements or dealership locations. The bill also restricts manufacturers from owning or controlling dealerships for extended periods and mandates timely responses to dealership transfer requests.

Moreover, the legislation aims to clarify the relationship between manufacturers and dealers by prohibiting practices that could harm dealers, such as failing to deliver vehicles promptly or imposing unreasonable fees. It also prevents manufacturers from charging consumers for post-sale software or hardware upgrades, except for specific updates, and restricts coercion regarding the sale of extended service contracts. Importantly, the bill ensures that manufacturers cannot interfere with dealers' negotiations with retail buyers or lessees and prohibits direct sales of new vehicles to consumers without going through authorized dealers. Overall, the bill seeks to foster fair competition and protect the interests of motor vehicle dealers in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17A-6A-10