Tennessee House Bill HB0881

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 3/14/23
• Refer: 3/21/23
• Chaptered: 4/25/23
• Passed: 4/25/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55, Chapter 17 and Title 62, Chapter 19, relative to auctions of previously titled motor vehicles that are antique or unique.

Impact

By easing the licensing requirements for auctions that feature antique or unique motor vehicles, HB0881 aims to promote local economic activity and encourage community engagement through vehicle festivals. The bill is set to enhance opportunities for collectors and enthusiasts to participate in auctions without the burden of stringent dealership regulations, thus expanding the marketplace for antique vehicles. However, it also includes a sunset provision that will repeal the new measures on October 16, 2023, effectively making the changes temporary unless further actions are taken to extend them.

Summary

House Bill 0881 proposes amendments to Tennessee Code Annotated regarding the auctioning of previously titled antique or unique motor vehicles. The bill allows individuals to sell or purchase such vehicles without requiring a motor vehicle dealer license, provided that the auctions are held in conjunction with a motor vehicle festival. The legislation specifies that the festival must take place at a municipal convention center in a county with a population that meets certain criteria, according to the most recent federal census. Additionally, the bill mandates that proceeds from these festivals benefit a hospital neurological institute located in the same specified county.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB0881 appears relatively positive, especially among local businesses and event organizers who anticipate benefits from increased vehicle auctions at festivals. Supporters likely view the bill as a means of fostering growth in the niche market of antique vehicle sales. However, there may be concerns regarding oversight and consumer protection in the absence of dealer licensing, indicating a potential division among stakeholders on the balance between facilitating trade and ensuring reliability in the auctioning process.

Contention

While the bill primarily addresses licensing requirements, it does raise questions about the implications for consumer protection standards in the antique vehicle market. Critics might voice concerns that allowing sales without a dealer license could expose buyers to higher risks of fraud or subpar goods. Furthermore, the specific population thresholds outlined in the bill could exclude certain counties from benefiting, potentially leading to disparities in how communities can engage with and capitalize on antique vehicle festivals.