Tanner Consumer Protection Act.
If enacted, SB 713 would enhance consumer protections within the realm of commercial auto sales, particularly for those businesses that depend on large vehicles. By stipulating that a reasonable number of attempts to fix a vehicle must be made within 18 months of delivery or 100,000 miles, the bill introduces a more transparent standard for addressing vehicle defects. This could potentially empower owners and improve accountability among manufacturers, especially in cases where vehicles are essential for business operations.
Senate Bill 713 proposes to amend Section 1793.22 of the Civil Code under the Tanner Consumer Protection Act, focusing primarily on consumer protections for owners of commercial motor vehicles. This legislation is designed to expand the definition of 'new motor vehicles' to include those with a gross weight of 10,000 pounds or greater that are used exclusively for business purposes. Moreover, it seeks to provide specific relief for issues related to faulty factory-installed diesel particulate filters by ensuring that owners have certain rights when vehicles fail to conform to express warranties after a reasonable number of attempts to repair.
The sentiment around SB 713 is generally supportive, especially among consumer advocacy groups and business owners who utilize commercial vehicles. Proponents argue that the bill strengthens consumer rights and provides necessary protections against manufacturers who fail to adequately service their products. However, there may be concerns from vehicle manufacturers about increased liability and the burdens of extended warranty requirements, creating a divergence in perspectives regarding the bill's implications.
Notable points of contention include concerns from industry stakeholders about how expanded warranty obligations may affect manufacturing and sales processes. While supporters advocate for consumer protections against defective vehicles, some critics warn that the bill could lead to increased costs for manufacturers, which may, in turn, be passed onto consumers. Balancing the need for consumer protection while ensuring the viability of vehicle manufacturers remains a critical focus of the discussions surrounding this legislation.