OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TEXAS AUTOMOBILE DEALERS ASSOCIATION 2025-2026 | Issue 2 Grounded in Values, Driven by Purpose A Conversation With 2026 TADA Chair GREG BRUNER Website Cookies and Tracking Technologies What Texas Dealers Need to Know in an Evolving Legal Landscape
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6 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Laying the Groundwork By Darren Whitehurst, President, TADA 8 Grounded in Values, Driven by Purpose A Conversation With 2026 TADA Chair Greg Bruner 14 Celebrating 2026 TIME Dealer of the Year Nominee Bobby Cavender 16 Chatting With ATD Truck Dealer of the Year Nominee Patrick Chastang By Lucas Deal, Chief Editor, TPS 19 Website Cookies and Tracking Technologies What Texas Dealers Need to Know in an Evolving Legal Landscape By Mark Sanborn, Senior Product and Regulatory Counsel, ComplyAuto 22 TADA Leadership Network Fredericksburg, Texas — November 9-11, 2025 24 Leadership Development for Today and Tomorrow Highlights From the TADA Leadership Network’s Fall Meeting 25 2026 TADA Leadership 28 Updates from the Office of the Commissioner Representing Employers By Joe Esparza, Chairman, Office of the Commissioner Representing Employers 29 Record Attendance and New Champs at 6th Annual NTXAD Auto Tech Competition North Texas Event Draws 64 Schools, Elected Officials and National Industry Leaders in Celebration of Emerging Workforce 32 The Top 7 AI‑Generated Retail Scams You Need to Worry About in 2026 By Fisher Phillips 36 Community News Contents ©2026 Texas Automobile Dealers Association® (TADA®) | MBR Connect DBA The newsLINK Group LLC. All rights reserved. Dealers’ Choice is published four times per year by The newsLINK Group LLC for TADA and is the official publication for this association. The information contained in this publication is intended to provide general information for review, consideration and education. The contents do not constitute legal advice and should not be relied on as such. If you need legal advice or assistance, it is strongly recommended that you contact an attorney as to your circumstances. The statements and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of TADA, its board of directors or the publisher. Likewise, the appearance of advertisements within this publication does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any product or service advertised. Dealers’ Choice is a collective work, and as such, some articles are submitted by authors who are independent of TADA. While a first-print policy is encouraged, in cases where this is not possible, every effort has been made to comply with any known reprint guidelines or restrictions. Content may not be reproduced or reprinted without prior written permission. For further information, please contact the publisher at (855) 747-4003. 8 22 Scan for a direct link to the TADA website. DEALERS’ CHOICE 4
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As the year gets underway, I want to share an important update on our legislative priorities and outline how member engagement will be critical to our collective success — particularly as we begin preparing for the 2027 Texas Legislative Session. Texas is one of only four states that convene its legislature biennially. As a result, legislative success requires long-term planning, early engagement and sustained advocacy well before the gavel ever falls. While the 2027 Regular Session may feel distant, the groundwork for success must be laid now. One of our highest legislative priorities continues to be manufacturer reimbursement for warranty and recall work — specifically, reimbursement for parts. When a vehicle is brought in for warranty work or a recall, dealers perform that work on behalf of the manufacturer. Texas law requires manufacturers to reimburse dealers at the same rate charged to retail customers for non-warranty work, but the lack of a formula has allowed some manufacturers to fail to pay appropriately. During the 2023 and 2025 Legislative Sessions, TADA advanced legislation designed to strengthen and clarify this statute. Unfortunately, both efforts fell short — once due to a procedural issue, and once because we were unable to reach an agreement with the manufacturers. Despite those setbacks, TADA remains fully committed to achieving a fair and balanced solution. PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Laying the Groundwork By DARREN WHITEHURST President, TADA DEALERS’ CHOICE 6
As we prepare for 2027, efforts are already underway to elevate this issue as a legislative priority. Only three states — Texas, Missouri and Nevada — lack a parts reimbursement formula. Last session, manufacturers attempted to insert language that would have excluded engines and transmissions from the definition of “parts.” Such a provision exists in only one state nationwide and would have represented a step backward for Texas dealers who are already being properly reimbursed for these components. TADA will continue to advocate for a solution that reflects current law and ensures parity between warranty and non-warranty parts reimbursement. While the issue may seem straightforward, the reality is far more complex. Legislators and their staff do not understand the impact on dealerships when manufacturers reimburse warranty work at a lower rate than what customers pay for the same work outside of warranty. That is why dealer engagement matters. Over the coming months, TADA will work closely with our Executive Committee, District Directors and Legislative Committee to ensure that all 181 members of the Texas Legislature are assigned key dealer contacts. Personal stories and local relationships make the difference. I encourage you to watch the brief videos recently shared by Chair-Elect Mark Stevenson (ValMark Chevrolet, New Braunfels) and incoming Legislative Chair Bentley Durant (Classic Chevrolet, Grapevine). Along with the one previously shared by Past Chair Tim Crenwelge, these videos clearly articulate why and how this issue impacts every one of the 1,450 dealerships across Texas — regardless of size or market. Scan the QR codes below to watch the videos. I strongly encourage you to create your own story to share and to spend a little time during the interim getting to know your local legislators. These elected officials shape the franchise system under which we operate. If you already have an established relationship, whether with your own legislator or someone from another area of the state, please let TADA know — those connections are invaluable during the legislative session. If you do not, our lobby team is ready to help facilitate introductions and provide talking points for your meetings. Texas dealerships are the best grassroots advocacy network. Every legislator knows, or wants to know, a local dealer. You are trusted employers, major contributors to local tax bases and leaders in your communities — often among the first to step up when help is needed. Simply put, dealers are an essential engine that keeps Texas running. Our organization is strong, engaged and well-positioned for the work ahead. With continued participation from our members and leadership, I am confident that we can achieve meaningful progress in 2027. Thank you for your commitment to TADA and for the vital role you play in advancing our shared mission. https://vimeo.com/1136946871 Mark Stevenson TADA Chair-Elect https://vimeo.com/1164116644 Bently Durant TADA Legislative Chair https://vimeo.com/1136941282 Tim Crenwelge TADA Past Chair 7 DEALERS’ CHOICE
Grounded in Values, Driven by Purpose A Conversation With 2026 TADA Chair GREG BRUNER DEALERS’ CHOICE 8
For Greg Bruner, the automobile business is much more than a profession; it’s a calling shaped by family, community values and a deep belief in servant leadership. His career is the story of a family dealership’s progression and of an industry navigating rapid change while remaining rooted in relationships and trust. SHAPED BY FAMILY AND COMMUNITY Greg grew up immersed in the car business and witnessed firsthand the dedication required to build, grow and sustain a successful dealership in a close‑knit community. The Bruner family entered the automotive industry in the early 1920s in Kerens, Texas, beginning with an auto service station run by Greg’s great‑grandfather, Charlie, and then his grandfather, Vernon. Vernon first sold Star automobiles before becoming a Chevrolet dealer in 1928, and the legacy of Bruner Chevrolet eventually passed to Greg’s father, Dwain. For young Greg, watching his family interact with customers, employees and neighbors was a lesson in the importance of reputation and character. FOLLOWING THE FAMILY PATH — BY CHOICE Greg didn’t march into the showroom with a predetermined plan. In college, he first pursued accounting, drawn by mentors and the idea of becoming a CPA, before realizing the profession wasn’t as good a fit as he’d imagined. Around his junior year, as he and his girlfriend Lynda were planning to marry, he told his father he wanted to return home and work at the dealership. His dad chuckled, “You just need a job because you’re fixing to get married,” to which Greg responded, “Well, you’re not wrong.” Greg got the job he’d asked for, and once there, he learned every corner of the business. A four‑month stint selling cars turned into an unexpected promotion to F&I when the department manager resigned. Greg had learned just enough from helping out at the dealership during the summers while in college to print contracts, so he stepped in to fill the gap. He later became sales manager when the prior manager left to establish his own store. “Every one of my promotions was from attrition,” Greg jokes. Learning the ropes of the family business wasn’t always easy. As a teen washing cars, he accidentally left a manual-transmission vehicle in gear, started it to listen to the radio like the older guys, and sent the car lurching forward. It was his “first wreck,” and as bad 9 DEALERS’ CHOICE
news often does, it reached his dad with impossible speed. The crew had a field day ribbing “Little Bruner” for wrecking a car. MENTORS WHO MADE A DIFFERENCE Greg credits family and industry mentors for shaping his approach. He speaks warmly of Jack, a seasoned used‑car manager who taught him how to appraise vehicles, understand used‑car markets and navigate the wholesale network. “I just learned so much from him,” Greg says, “so I think about Jack a lot, even though he passed many years ago.” He also remembers neighboring Chevrolet dealers who, despite Greg being in his early 20s, never treated him like a kid. Those relationships modeled a rare mix of rigor and generosity that still guides him today. THE MOST REWARDING PART OF THE JOURNEY Reflecting on his automotive career, Greg says the relationships he’s built with customers have been the biggest reward. He lights up when talking about serving customers “where they are in life,” sharing a recent example of helping a widow with paperwork after her husband’s unexpected passing. He measures success not only in units sold but in lives impacted — employees who build careers and customers who return across generations. Another deeply personal milestone was receiving his own 25‑year Chevrolet service plaque and placing it beside his father’s and grandfather’s. Three generations, united through the same industry and values. “It was surreal,” he says, “and a real rewarding moment for me.” NAVIGATING AN INDUSTRY IN TRANSITION Every era brings its own headwinds and opportunities. Greg remembers his father calmly announcing after 9/11 that he was going to the bank so the dealership could make its payroll. That jolt of reality taught him how quickly conditions can shift and how resilient dealers must be. Today’s challenges range from the practical to the geopolitical. Greg mentions reckoning with the role of AI in retail and service, the pace and practicality of the EV transition and the potential pricing pressure from Chinese automakers in the global market. These issues intersect with policy debates and evolving consumer expectations. Closer to the showroom floor, Greg points to brand dynamics. As a Stellantis dealer, he has weathered a difficult period, but left the recent NADA Show encouraged by new leadership and new plans. He trusts in the resilience of the franchise model, fortified by local ownership, dedicated management and teams who care about their customers. “There’s always another hurdle,” Greg says, “but history is a good teacher.” STEPPING INTO THE CHAIRMAN ROLE Greg’s decision to serve as chair of the Texas Automobile Dealers Association stems from gratitude and a commitment to continuity. His family has been engaged with TADA for decades, and he grew up seeing how advocacy, education and networking strengthened dealers and communities. He’s quick to say he’s “not a politician,” and that his leadership style is that of a peacemaker and consensus builder. He cites his many long‑standing relationships with manufacturing partners as invaluable experience, helping him learn how to find common ground with others to make forward progress. DEALERS’ CHOICE 10
GOALS AND A CALL TO ACTION Greg frames his goals around advocacy, unity and education, and he is clear about how each can be put into practice. He wants directors to engage locally by visiting stores in their district to chat with dealers, share coffee, compare notes and strengthen the relationships that help the association function at its best. He also encourages members to reach out to state representatives and senators this non‑legislative year — invite them to their dealership to learn about their operation and build familiarity well ahead of the 2027 session. Relationships at home make all the difference when legislation comes into play. BALANCING WORK, FAITH AND FAMILY Balance, he says, is a team effort — at the store, at the association and at home. Delegation and trust empower strong managers. Collaboration with board members spreads the load. Stepping away to be present with family keeps the entire enterprise grounded. Outside the office, Greg loves spending time outdoors and with his family, including his wife of 42 years, Lynda; daughter Courtney and husband Jeremy, along Every Choice Matters – Choose Federated® DriveSAFESM Federated DriveSAFESM Telematics can help your employees improve their daily driving habits. This combination of mobile app, in-vehicle tag, and online portal allows you to measure, rank, and provide feedback on employee driving behaviors so you can help them become safer drivers. Scan to learn more about Federated DriveSAFESM Telematics and how you can help your employee drivers stay safe behind the wheel. Federated Mutual Insurance Company and its subsidiaries* federatedinsurance.com | *Not licensed in all states. 25.08 Ed. 1/25 © 2025 Federated Mutual Insurance Company The content of this publication is for general information purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or an offer of insurance. Coverage will be determined solely by the terms of your policy, if approved for issue. Consult with a qualified professional to discuss questions specific to your circumstances. Helping Your Employees Stay Safe Behind The Wheel 11 DEALERS’ CHOICE
with their children Jett and Karis; son Kyle and wife Sarah, and their son Will. Faith is foundational to Greg; he serves as a deacon at his church, and he and his wife have taught fourth‑grade Sunday school for more than two decades. In recent years, they have traveled to Zimbabwe several times to support the work of the Mberengwa Caring Center, an initiative of In Sight Ministries, where Lynda serves on the board. The Caring Center educates and provides for youth in need, and Greg cherishes the opportunities he’s had to interact with the students there, including introducing them to American baseball. He emphasizes how his experiences in Zimbabwe have shaped his perspective on what truly matters in life. “Boy,” Greg says of the students, “they bless you back so many times.” Learn more about the mission of In Sight Ministries by scanning the QR code. https://insight-ministries.org/ FINAL REFLECTIONS If Greg could sum up his philosophy in one line, it would be the Golden Rule: treat people the way you want to be treated. In his view, that simple standard would reduce division, build common ground and improve the lives of the next generation. As president of Bruner Auto Family dealership group, representing General Motors, Stellantis and Toyota brands, and now as chairman of TADA, he sees a future that is complex but bright, as long as leaders pair adaptation with core values and never lose sight of the people they serve. In an industry defined by movement, his leadership is firmly grounded in the belief that the best businesses serve something greater than themselves. DEALERS’ CHOICE 12
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Celebrating 2026 TIME Dealer of the Year Nominee Bobby Cavender Congratulations to Bobby Cavender, who was the Texas nominee for the 2026 TIME Dealer of the Year Award! This recognition shines a light on decades of leadership, integrity and genuine care for his employees, customers and community. Bobby’s heart for people continues to inspire everyone, from their showrooms to every corner of the community they serve. What better way to kick off this incredible honor than with a celebration hosted by Ally. Congratulations, Bobby! DEALERS’ CHOICE 14
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By LUCAS DEAL, Chief Editor, TPS The American Truck Dealers (ATD) announced the nominees for its 2026 Truck Dealer of the Year Award. Sponsored by Procede Software and Trucks, Parts, Service (TPS), ATD’s truck dealer award honors dealer executives for their business and industry leadership, business success and involvement in leading their communities. TPS shared in-depth conversations with this year’s nominees, detailing how they found their way to the truck dealer business, how they’ve navigated the industry, their efforts to lead their businesses and more. These conversations led up to the announcement of the 2026 ATD Truck Dealer of the Year Award, which was presented Feb. 5 at the ATD Show in Las Vegas by Procede Software CEO Larry Kettler and TPS Editor Lucas Deal. The following are excerpts from a conversation with nominee Patrick Chastang, COO and dealer principal at Chastang Ford in Houston. Chatting With ATD Truck Dealer of the Year Nominee How did you get into the truck dealer industry? I am a third-generation automotive professional, and this business has always been a part of my life. My grandfather, Claude Chastang, began selling vehicles after returning from military service in 1933. While he never owned a dealership, he spent his entire career in sales, working for others and dedicating himself to the profession he loved. At one point in his career, my grandfather even worked for my father — my dad was the sales manager, and my grandfather was one of his salespeople. He continued selling trucks until the day he went into the hospital and passed away less than a week later. I was introduced to the business at a very young age. By the time I was four years old, I was spending Saturday mornings washing wheels and starting cars at a buy-here, pay-here operation my father was involved in. My parents, Mary and Joe Chastang, built the dealership on relationships, integrity and service, and I learned early that success in the automotive industry is not about transactions — it’s about people. PC hatars ticakng DEALERS’ CHOICE 16
Growing up in the dealership allowed me to see firsthand how my father treated customers and employees with respect and accountability. That experience shaped my values and continues to influence how I approach this business today. I now have the privilege of working alongside my sister and brother-in-law as owners and partners, continuing the legacy of hard work, honesty and service that has defined our family’s involvement in the industry for generations. How have you risen in the industry and your company to reach where you are today? I truly worked my way up from the ground floor. From childhood through my teenage years, I spent summers and weekends washing cars, cleaning the store, and even cooking and handing out hot dogs during sales events. After earning my driver’s license, I worked in the parts warehouse and as a parts driver, which gave me early exposure to inventory management and operational discipline. I later spent time in the service department as a porter, light repair technician and service advisor, while also assisting in the accounting office when possible. These roles gave me a strong appreciation for fixed operations, internal processes and the importance of teamwork. From there, I moved into vehicle sales, handling both retail and commercial accounts. I eventually stepped into my first management role as an inventory manager while still selling, and later held multiple sales management positions. In 2013, I became general manager of the store, and in 2021, I became an owner and chief operating officer. Every role I’ve held has been part of my education. My father, Joe, was my greatest teacher — he taught me not just how to sell vehicles, but how to build relationships that last decades. Even today, I believe there is always more to learn, particularly in the evolving commercial fleet market. What do you like most about being a truck dealer? The trucks are the product, but the relationships are the business — that’s what I enjoy most. In the commercial fleet world, we are not simply selling trucks; we are becoming partners in our customers’ operations. Whether it’s supporting a municipal fleet, an oil and gas company, or a local business owner who depends on reliable delivery vehicles, our role is to help keep their business running. What makes this work meaningful is trust — when customers call me directly because they know we will help solve a problem, or when employees stay with us for decades because they feel valued and supported. Being a truck dealer also gives us the ability and responsibility to give back by supporting our employees, partnering with charities and investing in our community. That commitment is central to who we are as a dealership. Describe your leadership style. How do you pilot your business? My leadership style is centered on relationships, accountability and doing right by people — both our employees and our customers. That approach is guided by a clearly defined set of values we call The Chastang Way, which serves as the framework for how we make decisions across the business. The Chastang Way emphasizes integrity, transparency, respect and long-term relationships. These principles guide how we hire, train, resolve challenges and serve our customers. When decisions are difficult, we ask whether the outcome aligns with our values and supports the long-term success of our employees and customers. I am present in the dealership every day and take a hands-on approach when needed, but I also believe strong leadership means empowering capable people to lead. My role is to set the vision, provide direction and support the team so they can execute effectively. I work closely with my sister and brother-in-law as partners, and together we have preserved the values passed down from previous generations while continuing to adapt to an evolving industry. What do you believe is the most important skill for a truck dealer? How have you cultivated that skill? The most important skill for a truck dealer is the ability to build and maintain long-term relationships based on trust. In the commercial fleet business, customers are not making one-time purchases — their operations depend on reliable vehicles, responsive service, parts availability and honest communication. That trust is earned by listening, following through and being accessible when challenges arise. I learned this approach by watching my father and have reinforced it over more than 30 years of working with businesses throughout Houston. Many of our fleet relationships span decades, and that loyalty is built one interaction at a time. 17 DEALERS’ CHOICE
How do you differentiate your business from your competitors? We have built Chastang Ford around serving commercial fleet customers across a wide range of industries. While many dealers focus primarily on retail transactions, our approach is centered on long-term partnerships with businesses that depend on their vehicles every day. Our differentiation comes from execution — having the right truck inventory on the ground, a knowledgeable commercial sales team, the right parts in stock and a service operation designed to minimize downtime. Just as important is clear, transparent communication so customers always know where their vehicle stands. Our employees stay because we value them, which provides our customers with consistency, experience and trust. I also believe strongly in accountability — our customers have my cell phone number because I want them to know we stand behind our commitments. What is the most difficult part of your job? My responsibility is to lead through change while protecting our culture, ensuring we adapt without losing sight of who we are. The most difficult part of my job is keeping pace with the constant changes in the industry and among manufacturers while ensuring we have the right people in place to execute at a high level. The commercial truck business continues to evolve rapidly, and staying aligned while maintaining operational consistency is a daily challenge. Equally challenging is finding and developing people who not only have the skills to succeed but who also embrace The Chastang Way. Skills can be taught; values cannot. How does ATD help you run your business? ATD creates valuable opportunities to learn from other truck dealers across the country, allowing us to benchmark performance and share best practices. Just as importantly, ATD serves as a strong voice for dealers at the national level, ensuring our perspectives are represented as the industry evolves. ATD also plays an important role in helping us navigate an increasingly complex industry through advocacy, education and peer collaboration. The insights ATD provides on manufacturer policies, regulatory changes and market trends help us make informed decisions and plan for the future. Why do you believe you were nominated for the ATD Truck Dealer of the Year Award? Honestly, I am honored and humbled by the nomination. There are many outstanding truck dealers across the country, and I do not view myself as more deserving than others. If I had to reflect on why I may have been nominated, I believe it comes down to consistency and commitment — to our people, our customers and our community. I genuinely enjoy being in the store and working behind the scenes to create an environment where employees can succeed and take great care of our customers. Any success we’ve had is the result of a strong team that embraces our values and takes pride in serving others. This nomination reflects their efforts more than any individual accomplishment, and I am grateful for the opportunity to represent them. This article was originally published on www.truckpartsandservice.com and is reprinted here with permission. DEALERS’ CHOICE 18
Website Cookies and Tracking Technologies What Texas Dealers Need to Know in an Evolving Legal Landscape By MARK SANBORN, Senior Product and Regulatory Counsel, ComplyAuto You have probably noticed those (somewhat irritating) “cookie banners” that have begun appearing on websites of all kinds — what are they and why are they popping up everywhere? The bottom line is that there is a cottage industry of plaintiff lawyers, along with a growing consensus of state and federal regulators, who are concerned about cookies and other tracking technologies on websites and are determined to address them with regulatory action and litigation. For dealers (as with other businesses), you need a banner, and you need one that not only is designed in a compliant manner and includes the required information, but it MUST WORK as stated, and that is no small task. Is the risk real? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Somewhat akin to the ADA website issue from a few years ago, a sizable contingent of plaintiffs’ lawyers is targeting businesses of all kinds, including dealers, and the risks are real if you don’t get this right. All dealer websites load a large number of cookies, scripts and other tools that are intended to track visitors on your site (analytics), and across the internet (retargeting). Dealers, marketing companies and OEMs increasingly rely on website cookies and related tracking technologies to generate leads, measure advertising effectiveness and personalize the customer experience. And sometimes these third parties load, use, disguise or obtain these tools on the dealers’ websites — with or without the knowledge of the dealer. These tools are powerful and often essential to modern digital retailing. They also create legal and compliance exposure that now demands attention at the executive level. The legal impacts are not confined to one state or region; they now apply across the country and extend to all dealers who collect data online. WHAT IS ACTUALLY RUNNING ON YOUR WEBSITE? The sad truth is that many dealers don’t know what is actually happening on their websites — and that can raise not only compliance and litigation risks, but practical business concerns as well. Your website is your digital storefront, your data and your customers, and these tools allow third parties to extract, use and share that data. If you don’t know what’s happening, it’s likely that some third party is taking data that you aren’t even aware of. We won’t get too technical here, but while “cookies” is the common shorthand, most dealership websites use a broader ecosystem of tracking technologies. These include traditional browser cookies, tracking pixels that transmit user activity to third parties, JavaScript tags and tag managers that dynamically load external scripts, analytics platforms, chat tools, session replay software, search tools and advertising integrations. These technologies can collect or transmit IP addresses, device identifiers, browsing activity, vehicle interest and form interactions. In some cases, they may also capture finance-related information such as payment estimator inputs, lease-versus-loan selections, income ranges or credit score approximations. Many of these tools are implemented directly by website providers, digital marketing vendors, OEM programs or advertising platforms. As a result, dealerships may be sharing consumer data externally without fully understanding the scope of what is being collected or where it is being sent. As with any data sharing, there may be good reasons to engage in practices that use these tools — as long as you are 19 DEALERS’ CHOICE
fully aware of what is happening, you are protected by contract, and you are managing your risks appropriately. LITIGATION RISK: UDAP AND WIRETAPPING THEORIES Perhaps the greatest current threat in this area is the risk of litigation. Plaintiffs’ firms are actively sending thousands of demand letters, and increasingly filing class actions alleging that websites deploy tracking technologies without proper consent — or that the consent does not function as described. These claims vary, but the basic claim is that by deploying tracking technologies without obtaining adequate consent from the consumer, you are violating a number of state and federal laws. One recurring allegation involves misleading cookie banners where a site represents that certain types of cookies will not load until consent is given, but tracking begins immediately upon page visit or those cookies are not properly categorized or blocked. Another popular plaintiffs’ theory focuses on the practical impossibility of reversing data collection once information has already been transmitted to third parties. Once external platforms build consumer profiles, later opt-out efforts may not effectively unwind the prior sharing. In addition, plaintiffs have invoked federal and state wiretapping laws, arguing that certain third-party tracking tools intercept electronic communications without adequate consent. Technologies such as session replay software, chat monitoring tools and certain analytics scripts have been targeted. Some state statutes require two-party consent, and courts have allowed cases to proceed even where the dealership is located outside the plaintiff’s state. While the legal landscape remains unsettled, obtaining clear, informed consent before activating nonessential tracking and analytics technologies remains the most effective practical safeguard. Remember, these litigation risks are generally unrelated to state privacy laws and are not limited to any state. Dealers in all 50 states are seeing increasing numbers of these claims nationwide. STATE PRIVACY LAWS AND TARGETED ADVERTISING Comprehensive state privacy laws1 are now in effect in numerous jurisdictions, including Texas, and these create additional potential risks for dealers. While several state privacy laws, including Texas, exempt “financial institutions,” issues for dealers under these laws may remain.2 For example, a central feature of many of these laws is the consumer’s right to opt out of the “sale” of personal information and the use of personal data for targeted advertising. In several states, including Texas, the definition of a “sale”3 extends beyond an exchange of money. Sharing personal information with a third party in exchange for analytics insights, ad optimization or other business benefits may constitute a sale under those statutes. Similarly, enabling cross-site advertising through common ad network pixels (e.g., Google, Meta) may qualify as targeted advertising, triggering disclosure and opt-out obligations. Dealers may be subject to these laws even if they are not physically located in the state, provided they collect personal information from residents of those jurisdictions and meet any other applicability requirements. Failure to implement meaningful opt-out mechanisms or to clearly disclose data-sharing practices can result in regulatory risk under the state privacy law directly. GOVERNANCE AND ONGOING OVERSIGHT Dealers should understand what technologies are deployed on their websites, what data is collected and with whom it is shared. Consent mechanisms must function as described, and privacy policies must accurately reflect actual data practices rather than generic template language. Vendor relationships should be reviewed to ensure contractual alignment with GLBA obligations and applicable state privacy laws. In this ever-evolving legal landscape, website technology tools must be governed with the same rigor applied to other compliance-sensitive areas of the business. ComplyAuto is an industry-leading software provider specializing in automated compliance solutions for dealerships navigating complex state and federal privacy laws and website cookie consent requirements. With extensive experience addressing complex regulations such as the Texas Data Privacy And Security Act (TDPSA), ComplyAuto offers integrated solutions designed to simplify compliance and protect dealerships nationwide. Backed by decades of combined legal expertise and strong partnerships with numerous state dealer associations (including TADA), ComplyAuto ensures dealers remain compliant in today’s evolving regulatory environment. To learn more, visit complyauto.com. NOTES 1. There are related concerns raised under federal law that are outside the scope of this article, but are important. For example, the FTC has made it clear that persistent identifiers such as cookies and device IDs may qualify as personal information when they identify individuals or can reasonably be linked to them. If a dealership’s website states that certain tracking technologies will not activate until a user provides consent, but those trackers load regardless, regulators may view the discrepancy as an unfair or deceptive act under Section 5 of the FTC Act. In short, cookie banners and privacy disclosures must accurately reflect what is happening technically behind the scenes. 2. This is a complicated issue, but while these exemptions offer a strong defense in enforcement or litigation, there is a growing consensus that these exemptions may not cover all of dealership operations, or all situations depending on the corporate structure of the dealership and other factors. Even if the exemption applies, all dealers need to protect against the litigation threats, and there are a number of independent reasons why dealers still may want to comply with state privacy laws. 3. “‘Sale of personal data’ means the sharing, disclosing, or transferring of personal data for monetary or other valuable consideration by the controller to a third party.” Tex. Bus. & Com. Code § 541.001(28) (emphasis added). DEALERS’ CHOICE 20
TADA Leadership Network Fredericksburg, Texas November 9-11, 2025 DEALERS’ CHOICE 22
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Highlights From the TADA Leadership Network’s Fall Meeting The TADA Leadership Network’s last meeting of 2025 was held Nov. 9-11 at the Albert Hotel in historic Fredericksburg, a place many participants were excited to experience firsthand. Presented by Mike Udell of NCM Associations, the fall meeting focused on all aspects of dealership operations. The two days of classes offered invaluable insights and productive discussions. The Leadership Network also enjoyed an evening of laid-back, informal networking at Tim Crenwelge’s home in Fredericksburg. He graciously hosted the entire group, giving everyone a chance to chat and connect in a more relaxed setting. The TADA Leadership Network provides participants with the opportunity to meet and network with other Texas dealers, TADA’s executive staff, members of regulatory agencies and policymakers. Under the guidance of founder Tim Crenwelge (Crenwelge Motors of Kerrville) and Immediate Past President Chris Wall (Keating Auto Group), the program has been retooled and refocused on developing leadership skills that will prepare participants to thrive as the dealership business model evolves. Tim Crenwelge’s dedication to bringing the Leadership Network to life is especially meaningful as he completes his term as TADA Chairman. As the Leadership Network continues to grow, we anticipate it will have a positive impact on the many dealers and dealership leaders who take the time to participate. We can’t think of a more fitting legacy for Tim to leave behind. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Chris Wall for his leadership throughout the previous year. Educational opportunities, such as the biannual Leadership Network meetings, are at the core of TADA’s educational initiative. We’re dedicated to providing our membership with professional development, curated industry insights and crucial networking opportunities. Leadership Development for Today and Tomorrow DEALERS’ CHOICE 24
Mark Stevenson Chair-Elect Greg Bruner Chair Tim Crenwelge Immediate Past Chair Darren Whitehurst TADA President Karen Phillips TADA General Counsel and Executive Vice President Brian Bruckner Texas Truck Dealer Chairman DIRECTORS AT-LARGE CAR DEALERS C.J. Barnett Benny Boyd Bently Durant T. Harper Pat Schuchart Brandon Tomes TRUCK DEALERS James Bennie METRO CHAIRS James Bagan Shawn Barry Don Herring Jr. Brent McGavock Jeff Pester Sam Tijerina Kyle Janke 2026 tada Leadership 25 DEALERS’ CHOICE
32 29 16 25 31 30 28 9 8 1 2 7 3 4 17 18 20 27 5 33 6 24 21 26 19 12 13 11 14 15 34 23 22 10 35 2026 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE NORTHWEST John Luciano Vice Chair DISTRICT DIRECTORS 28 Dylan Otts 30 Patrick Sykora 31 Cory Dupriest NORTH Stephen Gilchrist Vice Chair DISTRICT DIRECTORS 10 Tony Pack 22 JJ Williams-Contreras 23 Jose Pozos 34 Sherri Herring NORTHEAST Jeff Rachor Vice Chair DISTRICT DIRECTORS 1 James Bennie 8 Scott Fly 9 Finley Ewing IV 35 John Lukehart WEST Shae Woodard Hall Vice Chair DISTRICT DIRECTORS 16 Kenny McCarty 25 Jimmy Bass 29 Bill Pollard Jr. 32 Rick Wallace CENTRAL Paula Lohse Vice Chair DISTRICT DIRECTORS 11 Julie Herrera 12 Mike Zorn 13 Jon Weinzapfel 14 Scott Stark EAST Fernando Varela Vice Chair DISTRICT DIRECTORS 2 Tim Capps 3 Joe Loving 4 Robert Turner 7 Ashley Willson SOUTHEAST Roger Elswick Vice Chair DISTRICT DIRECTORS 5 Jason Feldman 6 Kyle Janke 15 David Haas 33 Tony Gullo Jr. SOUTH Evelyn Sames Vice Chair DISTRICT DIRECTORS 17 Melissa DeMontrond 18 Chris Wall 20 Jennifer Yoder 27 Natasha del Barrio SOUTHWEST Ryan Kirkpatrick Vice Chair DISTRICT DIRECTORS 19 Carlos Liriano 21 Trey Atkission 24 Joseph Shields 26 Jeff Kahlig DEALERS’ CHOICE 26
James Bennie Northeast, Dist. 1 Tim Capps East, Dist. 2 Joe Loving East, Dist. 3 Robert Turner East, Dist. 4 Jason Feldman Southeast, Dist. 5 Kyle Janke Southeast, Dist. 6 Ashley Willson East, Dist. 7 2026 DISTRICT DIRECTORS Scott Fly Northeast, Dist. 8 Finley Ewing, IV Northeast, Dist. 9 Tony Pack North, Dist. 10 Julie Herrera Central, Dist. 11 Mike Zorn Central, Dist. 12 Jon Weinzapfel Central, Dist. 13 Scott Stark Central, Dist. 14 David Haas Southeast, Dist. 15 Kenny McCarty West, Dist. 16 Melissa DeMontrond South, Dist. 17 Chris Wall South, Dist. 18 Carlos Liriano Southwest, Dist. 19 Jennifer Yoder South, Dist. 20 Trey Atkission Southwest, Dist. 21 JJ Williams‑Contreras North, Dist. 22 Jose Pozos North, Dist. 23 Joseph Shields Southwest, Dist. 24 Jimmy Bass West, Dist. 25 Jeff Kahlig Southwest, Dist. 26 Natasha del Barrio South, Dist. 27 Dylan Otts Northwest, Dist. 28 Bill Pollard, Jr. West, Dist. 29 Patrick Sykora Northwest, Dist. 30 Cory Dupriest Northwest, Dist. 31 Rick Wallace West, Dist. 32 Tony Gullo Jr. Southeast, Dist. 33 Sherri Herring North, Dist. 34 John Lukehart Northeast, Dist. 35 Jeff Pester Metro Chair James Bagan Metro Chair Sam Tijerina Metro Chair Kyle Janke Metro Chair Shawn Barry Metro Chair Brent McGavock Metro Chair Don Herring Jr. Metro Chair C.J. Barnett Director-At-Large Benny Boyd Director-At-Large Bently Durant Director-At-Large T. Harper Director-At-Large Pat Schuchart Director-At-Large Brandon Tomes Director-At-Large 27 DEALERS’ CHOICE
Updates from the Office of the Commissioner Representing Employers By JOE ESPARZA, Chairman, Office of the Commissioner Representing Employers Texas Employers, This past February, the Texas Workforce Commission was proud to celebrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. CTE programs are helping students across Texas prepare for high-skill, high-demand careers in more than 460 different fields. Students enrolled in CTE courses are more likely to graduate high school, enroll in a two-year college, be employed after high school and earn more in the year after high school. Through programs like Dual Credit and the Jobs and Education for Texans Grant, TWC has helped more than 67,000 students gain hands-on training aligned with local workforce needs. I encourage employers to continue building bridges between education and industry so that the curriculum is aligned with real employer demand, ensuring Texans aren’t just earning credentials, but credentials that matter in the labor market. The education of young Texans not only strengthens our workforce systems, but also Texas’ reputation as the best state for doing business. Joe Esparza DEALERS’ CHOICE 28
Record Attendance and New Champs at 6th Annual NTXAD Auto Tech Competition North Texas Event Draws 64 Schools, Elected Officials and National Industry Leaders in Celebration of Emerging Workforce The 6th Annual NTXAD Auto Tech Competition at Texas Motor Speedway brought a record turnout, expanded programming and new champions rising to the top of the largest competitive field since the event began. Students from 64 schools from across North Texas brought their skills to the competition, an increase from previous years and a clear sign of growing interest in automotive technology careers. Hosted by the North Texas Automobile Dealers (NTXAD), the two-day competition tested students’ real-world diagnostic and repair skills while giving them direct access to dealerships and industry partners preparing to hire the next generation of automotive technicians. “There is a significant shortage of well-qualified technicians nationwide, and events like this competition shine a spotlight on the students stepping into those roles,” said David Johnson, CEO of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). LEADERS HIGHLIGHT MOMENTUM BEHIND SKILLED TRADES “We are seeing growing support at the state and federal levels for programs like this,” said Rep. David Cook, who attended the final day of competition. “Many students leave college with debt, while programs like this offer direct pathways into strong careers. This is a 29 DEALERS’ CHOICE
nonpartisan issue. Preparing young people for the future benefits everyone, and Texas needs more skilled technicians on the road.” “People take technicians for granted, but daily life depends on them to obtain groceries, medical supplies, for safe transportation, everything,” said C. Brent Franks, president of NTXAD. “You don’t need a four-year degree and student debt if you don’t have a passion for that route. If we had 1,000 certified technicians today, we could place them within a week. The technology in cars is so advanced that demand for skilled workers has never been higher.” A WORKFORCE PIPELINE SIX YEARS STRONG In the past two years, NTXAD has helped 139 former participants secure technician positions at North Texas dealerships, validating the competition’s role as one of the region’s most effective workforce-development initiatives. Students also participated in a career fair featuring OEMs, dealerships, training programs and hands-on demonstrations. Industry partners represented dozens of major brands, including Chevrolet, Ford, Subaru, Buick, GMC, Audi, Acura, BMW, Hyundai, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Toyota and Volkswagen, along with support from Capital One, Tekion, Ally Financial, Ikon Technologies and the Carroll Shelby Foundation. All winning teams received professional-grade Snap-On tools, scholarships to NTXAD’s Fast Track Automotive Technician Training Program and recognition at a luncheon attended by North Texas auto dealers and industry leaders from across the country. DEALERS’ CHOICE 30
2025 WINNERS 1st Place KLEIN CAIN HIGH SCHOOL Avery Elijah William Wilson Samuel Rosalez 2nd Place HOLLENSTEIN CAREER & TECHNOLOGY CENTER Garrett Reeves Kain Elmore Giovanni Sanchez 3rd Place ALLEN HIGH SCHOOL — COLLIN COLLEGE Adrian Mendoza Erik Camargo Jose Meji 31 DEALERS’ CHOICE
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