HB 7142 Summary

• Allows the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to issue new or used car dealer licenses to electric vehicle manufacturers meeting specific criteria: no existing franchise agreements with other dealers, manufacturing only electric vehicles, licensed as a manufacturer before January 1, 2019, selling only vehicles they manufacture, and not owned or controlled by other manufacturers.

• Prohibits most manufacturers from holding dealer licenses, except for manufacturers that operate dealerships on a temporary basis or rental companies selling previously-used vehicles that meet specific conditions.

• When a manufacturer cancels or fails to renew a franchise with a new car dealer, the Commissioner must demand license surrender unless the dealer holds additional franchises or the dealer contests the action through administrative and judicial review.

• Extends temporary dealership operating periods for manufacturers up to a maximum of two years if the manufacturer demonstrates bona fide efforts to sell and transfer the dealership to a qualified buyer.

• Effective July 1, 2019; amends sections 14-52b, 14-51, 14-67a, and 42-133r of Connecticut General Statutes regarding motor vehicle dealer and manufacturer licensing.