NJ A3530

Expands the legislative findings in the Franchise Practices Act to emphasize the public interest in maintaining independent motor vehicle dealerships for competition, warranty service, safety recalls, and routine maintenance across New Jersey communities.

Prohibits motor vehicle franchisors from requiring franchisees to offer the franchisor's insurance, warranty, or service plans, or from penalizing franchisees who offer competing products from other providers.

Restricts franchisors' right of first refusal to acquire a dealership, allowing exercise only when part of a formal written program to increase female or minority franchise ownership to over 51% within 10 years.

Requires franchisors to compensate franchisees at prevailing retail rates for warranty work and parts, with claims to be approved or disapproved within 30 days and audit limitations set at 12 months from claim receipt unless fraud is suspected.

Mandates that incentives, discounts, and sales programs offered to franchisees must be available on a proportionally equal basis to all same-line franchisees in the state, based on objective and reasonably achievable criteria.