MADA will stand on the front lines — but we’ll need every Mississippi dealer engaged, informed and ready. WORKING TOGETHER — UNTIL NOW Historically, while the missions of the Alliance, NADA and state dealer associations like MADA don’t always align, there has been collaboration on issues impacting consumers, dealers and manufacturers alike. In Mississippi, the Alliance has been involved in the legislative process. In fact, every recent major change to our state’s franchise law — ranging from warranty reimbursement improvements to bans on manufacturer-owned dealerships — has become law with the Alliance’s approval. The Alliance circulated the DOJ letter among OEMs before submitting it and seeking their approval. That’s why the DOJ letter is so troubling. And as of this writing, not a single OEM has disavowed the Alliance’s attack on franchise laws. WHAT CAN DEALERS DO? Franchised dealers need to stay vigilant in Washington and with state-elected officials. “ WHAT’S AT STAKE? 1. A Fight at the Federal Level: If the DOJ agrees with the Alliance’s position, it could pave the way for federal preemption of state franchise laws, weakening protections that Mississippi dealers have fought hard to secure. 2. Undermining State Policy: Mississippi’s dealer network is deeply important to local economies and the communities we serve. Federal interference could erode the foundation that has been laid over generations and harm the local auto retail system. FINAL THOUGHT This moment is a clear reminder of why it is vital that franchised dealers remain active in the political process — both in Washington and in Jackson. Mississippians have always been best served by franchised dealerships that provide not only value to consumers but also deep economic and social investment in our towns and communities. If the DOJ and Congress take the side of the OEMs, we’re looking at a fight of monumental proportions. MADA will stand on the front lines — but we’ll need every Mississippi dealer engaged, informed and ready. 5
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