The legislative and regulatory landscape involves both defense and offense from NHADA. For years, we have defended against legislation aiming to weaken the vehicle safety inspection program. Recently, we went on the offense to change a law for the betterment of the industry. On Aug. 2, 2024, HB 1243 was signed to law by Gov. Sununu, effectively changing the way New Hampshire dealers sell vehicles to Massachusetts residents for the better. Originally introduced as a Banking Department bill, HB 1243 was amended by Sen. Donovan Fenton (D-NH-10) to permit New Hampshire dealers, who were previously prohibited, to issue temporary plates to Massachusetts residents. This bill also eliminates the requirement that a retail motor vehicle dealer submit a form notifying the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) of a sale of a vehicle to a Massachusetts resident. The elimination of this will streamline the vehicle sales process. TEMPORARY PLATE/REGISTRATION DISCLAIMER FOR MASSACHUSETTS RESIDENTS When issuing temporary plates to Massachusetts residents, NHADA strongly recommends using a form titled, “Temporary Plate/Registration Disclaimer for Massachusetts Residents.” This helps ensure that both the dealer and consumer are protected. The form, pictured here, is available for purchase on NHADA’s online store. You can also place an order by calling our products team at (603) 224-2369 or emailing nhadservices@nhada.com. This form acknowledges the buyer’s understanding of the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, including obtaining a permanent registration in a timely manner, paying Massachusetts sales or use tax and more. For questions or additional guidance on complying with HB 1243, please contact me directly at dbennett@nhada.com or (603) 224-2369. FAQS/BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMP) BMP: When selling a used car, the best management practice is to not deliver the vehicle to the customer unless you, as the dealer, have the title in your possession. Q: What if the customer leaves the lot with their own plates? A: You should still include the temp plate in the deal jacket. A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT NEW NH LAW CHANGES TEMP PLATE PROCESS FOR MA RESIDENTS RDMV 938 Form No Longer Required BY DAN BENNETT REM, IOM, CAE, PRESIDENT, NHADA Important Note: HB 1243 only changed the law in New Hampshire regarding the issuance of temporary plates; it did not affect any Massachusetts laws or regulations. Each individual dealer should assess the new rule and develop best management practices relating to the new plate issuance process. 4
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