HB 07097 Summary

• Creates an exception allowing electric vehicle manufacturers to operate as new or used car dealers without holding franchise agreements with other dealers, provided they sell only their own manufactured vehicles and meet ownership requirements effective October 1, 2017.

• Prohibits manufacturers from holding new or used car dealer licenses, except for temporary operations or rental companies selling previously used vehicles, with limited exceptions for electric vehicle manufacturers.

• Expands definitions of "new car dealer" and "used car dealer" to include manufacturers licensed under the electric vehicle exception, allowing them to sell and repair vehicles incidental to their primary business.

• Exempts manufacturers licensed as dealers under the electric vehicle exception from franchise agreement requirements and regulations governing dealer-manufacturer relationships under sections 42-133r through 42-133ee.

• Clarifies that when a manufacturer cancels or terminates a dealer franchise, the dealer may contest the action and remain licensed during administrative and judicial review processes.