Louisiana House Bill HR157

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/24/17
• Refer: 5/25/17
• Report Pass: 5/30/17
• Passed: 6/4/17

Caption

Urges and requests the Motor Vehicle Commission to examine its interpretation of statutes applicable to recreational product dealer licenses for certain marine products dealers

Impact

If the Motor Vehicle Commission determines that the current interpretation is indeed too broad, the impact could lead to a significant change in licensing requirements, thereby allowing certain marine product dealers to operate without needing a recreational products dealer license. This shift could foster a more business-friendly environment for commercial operations that are currently burdened by licensing obligations designed for recreational product dealers. Such changes could support economic growth within that sector by reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens.

Summary

House Resolution 157 (HR157) urges the Louisiana Motor Vehicle Commission to reassess its interpretation of specific statutes regarding the licensing of recreational product dealers. The resolution addresses concerns raised by certain dealers of marine engines and large marine motors, who argue that the current licensing requirements for recreational products dealers extend beyond the original legislative intent. Specifically, these dealers feel that the requirement to hold a recreational products dealer license is unnecessary for those selling products that are strictly commercial rather than recreational in nature.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HR157 appears to be largely supportive among those directly impacted, such as the dealers of marine engines, who advocate for a legal interpretation that aligns with the original intent of the legislature. The resolution has garnered a positive reception from industry representatives who believe that the current licensing requirements are unnecessarily restrictive for businesses that do not deal in true recreational products. However, some caution may exist regarding how the resolution's implementation might affect consumer protections associated with dealer licensing.

Contention

Notable points of contention primarily revolve around the original legislative intent of the applicable statutes and what constitutes a recreational product. The text of HR157 suggests a clear differentiation between recreational and commercial products, which underscores the potential for disagreement over definitions within the industry. Additionally, some stakeholders may express resistance to any amendments to the existing framework if they perceive a risk to consumer safety and protection that licensing is intended to uphold.