Governor signs auto dealers support bill in St. Peters
Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon selected a St. Peters automotive retailer in which to sign a bill designed to provide some relief to the beleaguered retail end of the vehicle production chain.
The last step in finalizing any legislation is the governor's signature. Signing ceremonies are normally conducted in the Capitol but Nixon moved the occasion to Dave Sinclair Lincoln-Mercury in St. Peters on June 22.
The legislation comes in the form of an amendment to the Mo. Motor Vehicle Franchise Practices Act, current state law governing the relationship between auto manufacturers and the retail dealerships.
Nixon said it will "put Missouri car dealers on an equal footing" by providing protections in this state that are already a matter of law in neighboring states.
The main highlights of the bill include:
- A prohibition against anti-competitive practices.
- Gives dealers recourse toward insuring vehicles in-tact condition when delivered to the dealership.
- Offers dealers a right of first refusal to operate the under the new manufacturer should the original manufacturer change hands.
- Permits dealers who have been harmed because of violations of the Franchise Practices Act with a legal framework under which to be made whole following manufacturer's actions that result in damage to the dealership.
- Requires manufacturers or franchisors to register with the Mo. Dept. of Revenue.
The same requirements apply to domestic manufacturers and foreign manufacturers alike, with the governor's signature.
While Nixon credited a bi-partisan effort in the General Assembly for crafting the final legislation, only Democrats accompanied the governor at the signing table - state representatives Joe Smith (Dist. 14) and Kenny Biermann (Dist. 17).
Smith said he expects the measure to strengthen "dealerships relationships with the manufacturers."
Biermann emphasized the bill's "leveling of the playing field" aspect noting the "impact of the automotive industry" on the region's economy.
