Bill > H4284

This bill introduces a new requirement for the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database for open safety recalls before issuing or renewing vehicle registrations. An "open safety recall" is defined as a safety-related manufacturer recall that requires repairs by an authorized dealer, excluding minor labeling issues or recalls that only involve financial compensation. When a vehicle has an open safety recall, the RMV must notify the owner in writing, describing the recall and explaining that repairs can typically be made at no cost to the owner. Owners will be required to obtain necessary repairs before their next registration renewal, and the Registrar may deny registration renewal for vehicles with unaddressed safety recalls. The bill provides several exemptions to this requirement, such as when replacement parts are unavailable, the manufacturer hasn't made a remedy available, or the owner can self-certify extenuating circumstances. The RMV must send a notice 50-80 days before registration expiration listing any open recalls that need to be remedied. Importantly, the bill explicitly states that it does not alter manufacturer or dealer liability under existing common law.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4284