SB 765 Summary

• Amends the definition of "coerce" to include failing to act in good faith and threatening to withhold benefits available to other dealers of the same line make.

• Extends the timeframe for the Arkansas Motor Vehicle Commission to conduct hearings and render final determinations on new dealer protests from 120 days to 180 days.

• Prohibits manufacturers and distributors from requiring dealers to relocate, remodel facilities, or make substantial changes unless requirements are reasonable and justifiable based on economic conditions, with manufacturers bearing the burden of proof.

• Establishes that dealers and manufacturers are immune from liability for privacy of information in motor vehicle databases and in-vehicle data not controlled by the dealer.

• Adds protections for motorcycle and all-terrain vehicle dealers regarding warranty labor rates and prevents manufacturers from using financial services companies to circumvent dealer protections under the chapter.