Bill > A07844

This bill aims to protect automobile dealerships from unfair practices by manufacturers and franchisors by amending various sections of the vehicle and traffic law. Key provisions include requiring franchisors to disclose any interest in a dealership's franchise entity, restricting franchisors from unfairly coercing dealers into agreements or terminating them without proper notice, and preventing franchisors from conditioning franchise renewals on costly renovations unless specific conditions are met, such as providing adequate vehicle supply and demonstrating the reasonableness of the demand. The bill also clarifies rules around the repurchase of dealer inventory upon franchise termination, sets new standards for allocating new vehicle inventory to prevent discriminatory practices, and modifies how dealerships are compensated for warranty work and other incentives, including establishing clearer timelines for payments and audits. Furthermore, it prohibits franchisors from charging back warranty or incentive payments beyond a certain timeframe without proper notification and justification, and requires franchisors to provide dealers with specific information regarding the basis for any audits or chargebacks.