Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

Maine Senate Bill LD1296

Introduced
3/25/25  
Refer
3/25/25  
Engrossed
6/3/25  
Enrolled
6/4/25  

Caption

An Act to Amend the Law Governing Watercraft Franchisor Warranty Reimbursements

Impact

The impact of LD1296 on state laws could be significant as it updates existing frameworks governing franchise agreements. By mandating franchisors to reimburse for parts and labor at customary retail rates, the bill addresses potential disparities that franchisees face when dealing with warranty repairs. This shift intends to support franchisees financially, encouraging better compliance with warranty terms and potentially improving service quality in the watercraft industry as a whole. It is expected this amendment could lead to more balanced relationships between franchisors and franchisees.

Summary

LD1296 is an act that seeks to amend existing laws regarding warranty reimbursements related to watercraft franchisors. Under the new provisions, franchisors would be required to promptly fulfill their warranty obligations to franchisees, which includes compensating them for the retail price of parts and reasonable labor costs when performing repairs covered by warranties. This amendment aims to ensure that franchisees are fairly reimbursed for the costs incurred in fulfilling warranty repairs, aligning the financial responsibilities more equitably between franchisors and franchisees.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment surrounding LD1296 appears to be supportive, particularly from those within the franchising sector who advocate for fairer compensation practices. Proponents of the bill argue that it provides necessary protections for franchisees, enabling them to operate more sustainably without risking financial losses due to unbalanced warranty agreements. However, some concerns may exist regarding the potential increased costs to franchisors and how these changes could affect pricing for consumers in the long run.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the definitions of 'reasonable' labor costs and how they are determined. While the bill seeks to support franchisees, the potential for differing interpretations of what constitutes a reasonable rate could lead to disputes between franchisors and franchisees. Additionally, franchisors may express concerns about their financial liabilities increasing significantly due to the heightened reimbursement requirements, which could lead to broader implications for pricing strategies and business operations in the watercraft industry.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD1956

An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Optometrists

ME LD2072

An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Motor Vehicles

ME LD1879

An Act to Align Laws Governing Crossbow Hunting with Those Governing Archery Hunting

ME LD1808

An Act to Amend the State Tax Laws

ME LD526

An Act to Amend the Laws Governing the Emergency Medical Services Stabilization and Sustainability Program

ME LD1537

An Act to Amend the Laws Relating to the Prevention of Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Pollution

ME LD1888

An Act to Reduce Electricity Costs for Maine's Consumers and Businesses by Amending the Laws Governing Renewable Resources

ME LD47

An Act to Amend the Law Governing Licensing Actions of the Emergency Medical Services' Board

ME LD1675

An Act to Amend the Laws Governing the General Assistance Program Regarding Eligibility, Housing Assistance and State Reimbursement and to Establish a Working Group

ME LD1967

An Act to Support Municipal Franchise Agreements

Similar Bills

MO SB398

Enacts provisions relating to motor vehicles

MO SB502

Modifies dealer compensation by franchisors under the Motor Vehicle Franchise Practices Act

NJ A4380

Establishes "Motor Vehicle Open Recall Notice and Fair Compensation Act"; revises motor vehicle franchise agreements.

NJ S3309

Establishes "Motor Vehicle Open Recall Notice and Fair Compensation Act"; revises motor vehicle franchise agreements.

CA AB2107

New Motor Vehicle Board.

CA AB179

New Motor Vehicle Board.

UT SB0090

Automobile Franchise Amendments