An Act modernizing the business practices between motor vehicle dealers, manufacturers, and distributors to increase consumer protections

H 4980 modernizes rules governing relationships between motor vehicle dealers, manufacturers, and distributors in Massachusetts to strengthen consumer protections. It directly affects dealers by limiting manufacturers’ ability to force facility relocations, remodels, or vendor choices without written agreements and fair notice. Key provisions include requiring 60 days’ advance notice for territory changes (with dealer appeal options), prohibiting misuse of dealer customer data (including mandatory indemnification for data breaches), and restricting manufacturers from unreasonably altering dealer facilities or vendor requirements. The law aims to prevent unfair business practices while ensuring dealers can operate without undue pressure from manufacturers.