Off to a Strong Start Jared Wyrick President, WVADA PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE As we conclude the first quarter of 2026, WVADA is off to a strong start, highlighted by the success of our recent legislative session. Among the 304 bills that were passed, WVADA successfully passed two key pieces of legislation: S.B. 556, which modifies the priority of insurance during test drives, and H.B. 4881, which removes the stipulation that the loan value of a vehicle must be less than $9,500 to obtain a title for abandoned or junked vehicles. ∙ S.B. 556: Modifying the priority of insurance coverage for individuals operating a vehicle during test drives (Sponsored by Sens. Martin, Woelfel, Phillips and Takubo and Delegate Riley). — PASSED (Senate: 34-0, House: 77-16) ♢ WVADA is grateful to Matt Jenkins for his testimony before the House Judiciary Committee, as well as to Richard Tilson (USI), Dennis Sheets, Suzanne Persinger, and Ginny and Wyn Bowden, who traveled to the Capitol and engaged with legislators on this bill. ∙ H.B. 4881: Relating to obtaining titles for abandoned or junked motor vehicles left on the property of an automobile dealer (Sponsored by Delegates Ferrell, Sheedy, Pritt, Mallow, Phillips and Hall). — PASSED (Senate: 34-0, House: 94-0) Our organization remains steadfast in upholding our franchise law and protecting the interests of our dealer members. WVADA was also successful in combating harmful legislation, including: ∙ H.B. 5136: Authorizing certain motor vehicle manufacturers to operate as new car dealers — Not Passed ∙ S.B. 97/H.B. 4814: Equipment Right to Repair Act — Not Passed ∙ H.B. 4198: E-Verify Safe Harbor Act — Not Passed We would like to thank our dealer sponsors for supporting our weekly legislative receptions for members of the Senate and the House, as well as their staff. These receptions have proven to be an effective networking opportunity for both WVADA and our dealer members: ∙ Thornhill Auto Group ∙ Moses Auto Group ∙ Harry Green 7 Acres ∙ Bill Cole Auto Mall ∙ Jenkins Auto Group ∙ Northside/Midstate Auto Group In addition to a productive legislative session, we also experienced a successful turnout at our VIP Dealer Charity Gala, where we raised over $20,000 for Good News Mountaineer Garage. WVADA is immensely grateful for the support from our local dealers, sponsors and attendees. Looking ahead, we have many exciting events planned, including our joint Family Convention with the Kentucky Automobile Dealers Association at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Farmington, Pennsylvania, June 14-17. We are excited to offer an agenda featuring innovative speakers who will highlight emerging automotive trends and vital industry updates, along with exciting social events that will appeal to the whole family! Between events, you’ll have the chance to connect with peers against the stunning backdrop of the Laurel Highlands and enjoy all the amenities of the resort. Everyone should have received their voice-box invitation in early March, showcasing everything Nemacolin has to offer. We are expecting a larger turnout from our neighbors in Kentucky this year, so I encourage you to register and book your room ASAP by visiting our events tab at wvcar.com. We deeply appreciate our members’ engagement; WVADA’s success is a testament to your participation and support. I look forward to a successful year, and I appreciate the opportunity to serve this Association. WVADA NEWS 4
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