Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB1504

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the selection by motor vehicle dealers of materials and vendors for motor vehicle dealership upgrades and improvements.

Impact

The enactment of HB1504 is expected to reshape the relationship between motor vehicle dealers and manufacturers. By allowing dealers to make independent choices concerning improvements to their businesses, the bill could enhance competition among vendors, potentially driving down costs for dealers and ultimately benefiting consumers through improved services and offerings. It applies to all current and future dealership operations, ensuring that the impact is broad and instantaneous across the state.

Summary

House Bill 1504 addresses the selection process by motor vehicle dealers regarding the materials and vendors used for dealership upgrades and improvements. This legislation prohibits manufacturers or distributors from requiring dealers to use specific products or vendors for such enhancements. Instead, dealers are granted the autonomy to choose their materials and vendors, thereby fostering greater independence and flexibility in their business operations. This is particularly significant in an industry where manufacturers often impose strict guidelines on dealers.

Conclusion

Overall, HB1504 represents a significant shift in regulatory framework for motor vehicle dealerships in Texas. By emphasizing dealer choice, the bill has the potential to transform operational practices within the industry. However, the long-term effects on manufacturer-dealer relationships and product consistency remain areas of active discourse that will need monitoring as the legislation takes effect.

Contention

While the bill aims to empower dealers, notable contention may arise from manufacturers concerned about maintaining brand standards and intellectual property rights. Although the bill includes provisions to protect manufacturers' intellectual properties, the allowance for dealers to choose vendors could lead to inconsistent quality in upgrades and improvements. This has led to discussions around the balance between dealer autonomy and manufacturer control, with some stakeholders arguing that the integrity of the brands could be compromised.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4078

Relating to motor vehicle franchised dealers and the reimbursement of motor vehicle franchised dealers by manufacturers and distributors for warranty, recall, and preparation and delivery work.

TX SB2099

Relating to motor vehicle franchised dealers and the reimbursement of motor vehicle franchised dealers by manufacturers and distributors for warranty, recall, and preparation and delivery work.

TX HB3861

Relating to the titling and registration of motor vehicles by motor vehicle dealers.

TX SB2567

Relating to the issuance of temporary tags and license plates by a motor vehicle dealer.

TX SB1344

Relating to the advertising of certain used motor vehicles.

TX HB1321

Relating to certain insurance practices with respect to repair of motor vehicles.

TX HB3008

Relating to the effect of the category of the motor vehicle dealer general distinguishing number issued by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and held by a person on the appraisal for ad valorem tax purposes of the person's motor vehicle inventory.

TX SB138

Relating to the effect of the category of the motor vehicle dealer general distinguishing number issued by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and held by a person on the appraisal for ad valorem tax purposes of the person's motor vehicle inventory.

TX HB3599

Relating to an exemption from certain motor fuel taxes for, and registration fees for motor vehicles owned by, certain nonprofit food banks.

TX HB2004

Relating to the tax imposed on the purchase of a motor vehicle by the lessee on termination of the lease.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.