State of Michigan

10/15/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/16/2021 00:07

Gov. Whitmer Signs Bill to Provide Flexibility for Car Dealerships

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 15, 2021

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer Signs Bill to Provide Flexibility for Car Dealerships

LANSING, Mich. --Yesterday, Governor Whitmer signed Senate Bill 128, which will amend the Michigan Vehicle Code to allow car dealerships greater flexibility in their operating hours.

"I am happy to sign legislation that supports our small businesses and puts Michigan first," said Governor Whitmer. "Senate Bill 128 lifts restrictions for Michigan car dealerships without compromising opportunities for consumers. This bill is a great example of the positive difference we can make for Michiganders."

Currently, Michigan car dealerships must be open for a least 30 hours a week for 52 weeks each year. The current requirement poses a challenge for car dealerships to accommodate emergencies, vacations, and other necessary closures. This bill would allow greater flexibility for a car dealership to be open for less than the 30 hour-minimum for up to four weeks each year.

"We applaud Governor Whitmer for signing this common sense legislation that will provide many small independent automobile dealerships with much needed regulatory relief and flexibility when emergencies occur and provide them with the ability to plan for other temporary closures," said Otto Hahne, owner of City of Cars in Troy, and President of Michigan Independent Automobile Dealers Association.

Senate Bill 128 was sponsored by Sen. Kimberly LaSata (R-Coloma), and a copy can be found here.

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