HB 2174

Bill Subjects

Abstract

Provides that if a motor vehicle manufacturer or factory branch discontinues, sells, or transfers its right to manufacture a line-make of motor vehicles, and the acquiring manufacturer or factory branch does not honor an existing franchise agreement with motor vehicle dealers in Virginia, such discontinuation, sale, or transfer shall constitute a termination of the franchise and such motor vehicle dealers shall be entitled to compensation pursuant to Virginia law. The bill provides that a manufacturer or distributor's right to first refusal in the event of a proposed sale or transfer of a dealership does not apply if such sale or transfer is not to a dealer licensed anywhere in the United States as a dealer holding a franchise from any manufacturer or to a distributor licensed as a manufacturer or distributor in the Commonwealth unless the exercise of such right of first refusal by a manufacturer or distributor with a program promoting minority dealers would lead to a minority dealer having a majority ownership of a dealership. The bill exempts certain manufacturers and distributors from the limitations on the right of first refusal.