Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HSB118

Introduced
2/3/25  

Caption

A bill for an act authorizing manufacturers of battery electric motor vehicles to be licensed as motor vehicle dealers.

Impact

The enactment of HSB118 could significantly impact the automobile market in Iowa. By allowing BEV manufacturers to operate their own dealerships, it is expected to increase competition among car sellers and provide consumers with better access to electric vehicles. The bill emphasizes the importance of electric vehicles in the transition towards a more sustainable economy, aligning state laws with broader environmental goals. Moreover, this legislation could serve as a model for other states considering similar adjustments in their automotive regulations.

Summary

HSB118 aims to amend Iowa law to allow manufacturers of battery electric motor vehicles to be licensed as motor vehicle dealers. This new provision introduces a specific exception to current regulations that traditionally prohibit manufacturers from owning or controlling dealerships. By facilitating this licensing, the bill seeks to promote the sale of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) directly through their manufacturers, enhancing access to sustainable vehicle technology for consumers.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the bill may face opposition from traditional dealerships concerned about increased competition. Stakeholders within the conventional automobile market might argue that allowing manufacturers to sell directly undermines their business model, posing challenges to existing dealer networks. Additionally, there may be debates surrounding consumer protection and market fairness as this legislative change could shift the dynamics of vehicle sales in favor of manufacturers at the expense of independent dealers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA HF2213

A bill for an act relating to optional equipment and subscription service fees included with the sale of motor vehicles by licensed motor vehicle dealers, and making penalties applicable.

IA HF493

A bill for an act relating to optional equipment and subscription service fees included with the sale of motor vehicles by licensed motor vehicle dealers, and making penalties applicable.

IA HF592

A bill for an act relating to licensed vehicle dealers, including vehicles for resale subject to a security interest and remote sales of motor vehicles. (Formerly HSB 168.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

IA HSB168

A bill for an act relating to certain place-of-business requirements for licensed motor vehicle dealers who conduct sales via the internet and deliver vehicles to buyers.(See HF 592.)

IA SSB1181

A bill for an act relating to certain place-of-business requirements for licensed motor vehicle dealers who conduct sales via the internet and deliver vehicles to buyers.(See SF 504.)

IA SF504

A bill for an act relating to certain place-of-business requirements for licensed motor vehicle dealers who conduct sales via the internet and deliver vehicles to buyers.(Formerly SSB 1181.)

IA HF674

A bill for an act relating to vehicles, including by providing for registration and titling of motor vehicles by any county treasurer, by modifying related fees and the amount of fees retained by county treasurers, and the definitions of terms for purposes of motor vehicle franchisers, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HF 344, HF 55.) Effective date: 07/01/2024, 01/01/2025.

IA SSB3087

A bill for an act requiring a vehicle history report prior to the sale of certain motor vehicles by a dealer, and making penalties applicable.

IA HF344

A bill for an act regarding the registration and titling of motor vehicles, including by providing for initial registration and titling by any county treasurer and by modifying related fees and the amount of fees retained by county treasurers.(Formerly HF 55; See HF 674.)

IA HF405

A bill for an act relating to motor vehicle window tint, and making penalties applicable.

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