HB186 Summary

• Amends Alabama Code Section 8-20-4 to define when manufacturers coercing dealers to change location or alter dealership premises constitutes unfair trade practice.

• Declares unreasonable any requirement for facility construction or alteration if the facility was built or substantially altered within the prior 10 years with manufacturer approval, including signs and image elements.

• Declares unreasonable any requirement to use a manufacturer-selected vendor for construction or alterations if the dealer selects an alternative vendor providing substantially equal quality and services.

• Exempts from these restrictions construction or alterations necessary for health/safety compliance, technology requirements for vehicle sales/service, or routine facility maintenance.

• Allows manufacturers to continue existing facility improvement programs with multiple dealers or provide payments for agreed-upon improvements, construction, or alterations including signage.