New Jersey Assembly Bill A1531

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires dealership to notify buyers of recalls on used motor vehicles for sale.

Impact

Should A1531 be enacted, it will modify New Jersey's consumer protection laws, specifically under P.L.1960, c.39 (C.56:8-1 et seq.). By mandating that dealers disclose recall information, the bill fosters greater transparency in the automobile sales process. It protects consumers by giving them the knowledge needed to make informed purchasing decisions and may also contribute to improved vehicle safety on the roads. Furthermore, the legislation establishes a framework whereby dealers can limit their liability regarding the accuracy of information on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) website.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1531 seeks to enhance consumer protection by requiring car dealers to inform potential buyers about any existing recalls on used motor vehicles for sale. Under this legislation, it would be deemed unlawful for dealers to sell or transfer a used vehicle without first verifying whether there are any outstanding recalls that have not been corrected. If a recall is found, dealers must provide the buyer with details about the recall and whether the necessary repairs have been completed before finalizing the sale. This aims to ensure that buyers are fully informed of any safety issues related to the vehicles they intend to purchase.

Contention

There may be points of contention regarding the implementation of this bill, particularly around the legal responsibilities of car dealers. The bill includes a provision that creates an irrebuttable presumption of a dealer's ignorance of existing recalls if they provide proof that they checked the NHTSA website for recall information. Critics may argue that this provision could lead to a lack of accountability among dealers, potentially allowing them to evade responsibility for undisclosed recalls. Additionally, some dealers might voice concerns about the administrative burden of complying with the new requirements, which could impact their operations.