Bill > S2664

This bill amends Massachusetts vehicle registration laws by requiring the 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 requiring repairs at an authorized dealer, excluding minor labeling issues or recalls involving vehicle repurchase. Under this legislation, if a vehicle has an unaddressed safety recall, the RMV must notify the vehicle owner and include details about the recall, such as a description and information about free repairs. Vehicle owners will be required to obtain necessary repairs before their next registration renewal, and the RMV can deny registration renewal for vehicles with unresolved safety recalls. However, the bill provides several exemptions where registration cannot be denied, such as when replacement parts are unavailable, the manufacturer has not made a remedy available, or the owner self-certifies extraordinary circumstances preventing repair. The RMV must also proactively send recall notices 50-80 days before registration expiration. Importantly, the bill does not alter manufacturer or dealer liability under existing law, serving primarily as a consumer protection mechanism to ensure vehicle safety.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2664