Connecticut House Bill HB05285

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/19
• Refer: 1/14/19

Caption

An Act Concerning The Licensing Of New And Used Car Dealers.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly affect existing laws regulating car dealerships and the licensing process managed by the Department of Motor Vehicles. By including electric vehicle manufacturers in the licensing framework, the bill promotes equity among different types of vehicle manufacturers. This change could lead to an influx of new dealers specializing in electric vehicles, potentially enhancing consumer options and supporting the transition to cleaner transportation alternatives in the state.

Summary

House Bill 5285 proposes an amendment to Title 14 of the general statutes to allow the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to issue new or used car dealer licenses to electric vehicle manufacturers. This initiative aims to support the growing electric vehicle sector by ensuring that manufacturers can legally operate as car dealers, facilitating a more streamlined approach to selling electric vehicles in the state. The bill acknowledges the importance of expanding the dealership landscape to include not just traditional gasoline-powered vehicles but also electric vehicles, which are becoming increasingly prevalent.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding this bill, particularly from traditional car dealerships concerned about competition and market saturation. Critics may argue that the introduction of additional licenses could lead to an oversupply of dealerships and impact established businesses adversely. Moreover, discussions may arise regarding the infrastructure needed to support electric vehicle sales, such as charging stations and maintenance services, which could pose challenges if not adequately addressed.