Michigan Senate Bill SB0867

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/9/24
• Refer: 5/9/24
• Report Pass: 10/17/24
• Refer: 10/17/24
• Report Pass: 10/23/24
• Engrossed: 11/7/24
• Refer: 11/7/24
• Report Pass: 12/10/24

Caption

Occupations: vehicles, dealers, and repair facilities; owner of a motor vehicle repair facility to operate an additional facility under the same registration; allow. Amends secs. 2, 13b, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 30, 32, 32a & 33 of 1974 PA 300 (MCL 257.1302 et seq.).

Impact

The amendments proposed by SB0867 are expected to standardize and simplify the operational framework for motor vehicle repair facilities across Michigan. By permitting auxiliary facilities, businesses can potentially expand their services and enhance customer accessibility while maintaining compliance with state regulations. The modification of customer rights concerning how repaired parts are handled may bolster consumer confidence in repair operations, potentially leading to increased business for facilities that adopt best practices in customer service.

Summary

SB0867 amends the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Act to allow owners of motor vehicle repair facilities to operate an auxiliary facility under the same registration. The bill includes several significant amendments to existing regulations, including provisions for the return of replaced parts, requirements for estimates, certifications, and a structured system for addressing customer complaints. This bill aims to streamline operations for repair facilities and enhance transparency for consumers regarding repairs and service agreements.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment regarding SB0867 appears to be supportive, particularly among business owners and trade groups advocating for greater operational flexibility. They argue that these changes are progressive steps towards modernizing the regulatory framework of vehicle repair services, which have lagged in adapting to current industry practices. However, concerns persist among consumer advocacy groups about ensuring that consumer protections are not compromised by the push for deregulation.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the detailed provisions concerning the handling of replaced parts and the transparency required when customers dispute charges. Advocates for stronger consumer protections caution that the bill's implementation must ensure that rights to inspect and reclaim replaced parts are upheld without loopholes that could disadvantage customers. Additionally, the effectiveness of the auxiliary facility provisions hinges on ensuring compliance and adequate oversight to prevent potential abuses or oversights in service standards.