Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H4284

Introduced
7/23/25  

Caption

Relative to vehicle recalls

Impact

The introduction of H4284 is anticipated to significantly impact consumer protection laws in Massachusetts by placing a greater emphasis on vehicle safety. By making it obligatory for the RMV to notify vehicle owners about open safety recalls, the bill aims to reduce the number of unsafe vehicles in operation. This proactive approach could lead to fewer accidents and increased public safety on the roads, as more cars will be repaired before they are registered for use. Additionally, this measure may also promote accountability among manufacturers, as they will be held responsible for ensuring that necessary repairs are accessible and timely.

Summary

House Bill 4284 seeks to enhance vehicle safety by instituting mandatory notifications for vehicle recalls in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The bill amends Chapter 90 of the General Laws, introducing a provision where the Registry of Motor Vehicles must check for any safety-related recalls before issuing or renewing vehicle registrations. If a vehicle is found to have an open safety recall, the owner must be informed in writing, detailing the required repairs and stating that these repairs can be performed at no cost by authorized dealers. This provision aims to ensure that vehicle owners are aware of potential safety issues with their vehicles before they are permitted to drive them on the road.

Contention

Despite the bill's potential benefits, there may be points of contention surrounding its implementation. Some opponents might argue about the feasibility of mandating repairs before registration renewal, especially regarding the availability of parts or manufacturer responses. The bill includes exemptions for situations where repairs are not available, such as when the manufacturer cannot provide necessary parts or when aftermarket modifications prevent recall repairs. However, how these exemptions are applied in practice could lead to concerns from vehicle owners about their ability to comply without incurring additional costs or facing undue hardship.

Companion Bills

MA H474

Replaces Relative to vehicle recalls

Previously Filed As

MA H4277

Relative to vehicle recalls

MA H400

Relative to vehicle recalls

MA S220

Relative to vehicle recalls

MA S2210

Relative to increasing operational safety for keyless ignition technology in motor vehicles

MA H3421

Relative to motor vehicle leasing parity

MA S2284

Relative to motor vehicle leasing parity

MA H331

Further regulating business practices between motor vehicle dealers, manufacturers, and distributors

MA S151

Further regulating business practices between motor vehicle dealers, manufacturers, and distributors

MA H1018

Further regulating the rental of motor vehicles

MA S2257

To promote the safe integration of autonomous vehicles into the transportation system of the Commonwealth

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.