As we approach the end of another remarkable year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the accomplishments and milestones we have achieved together. This past year has been a year of growth, collaboration and advocacy for the automotive industry in West Virginia. I would also like to take a moment to thank all our dealers and members who continually support WVADA. Our events and efforts would not be possible without your support and the support of our preferred partners and associate members.
WVADA has successfully strengthened our state’s franchise law twice, reduced B&O taxes and ensured a competitive documentary fee for all dealers. I ask each of you for your support and engagement moving forward — to participate in the process, attend WVADA events, contribute to the WVCAR PAC, and support our key partners that help fund our Association — all of which helps us to continue on the incredible path we have been on for the past few years.
This past session, WVADA was able to pass one of the strongest franchise bills in the nation. This bill addressed several crucial aspects of our industry. This included clarifying the timeline for manufacturers to dispute motor vehicle dealer requests for adjustments to parts and labor rates.
Additionally, the bill established a 15-year period on dealer facilities that applies to any subsequent dealer obtaining ownership. It prohibits manufacturers from amending dealer agreements without the dealer’s consent and ensures manufacturers provide dealers with all makes and models, irrespective of the propulsion method.
Furthermore, the bill safeguards dealers from manufacturer interference in pricing, trade-in values, financing terms and the pricing of voluntary protection products. It prohibits manufacturers from treating franchised motor vehicle dealers merely as agents, reinforcing the independence and integrity of our members in the sale and lease of motor vehicles.
After completing the legislative session, we had a busy year planning the VIP Charity Gala and auto show, raising over $40,000 for Good News Mountaineer Garage, holding our first destination convention in over a decade, organizing six title and registration seminars for more than 300 title clerks, and hosting our second Board Retreat for our dedicated members to plan and strengthen our collective vision for the future.
West Virginia experienced several changes this election cycle and I look forward to working with the new members of the House and Senate. WVADA will be focused on educating the new members about our industry. The surveys that many of you completed earlier this year have allowed us to publish an economic impact booklet that will serve as a strong educational tool on the importance of franchise dealers and their economic impact throughout the state.
WVADA is ready to embrace 2025 with new challenges already peaking above the horizon with Scout’s recent announcement of direct-to-consumer sales of their new line of electric and hybrid vehicles. WVADA has anticipated this move, and we specifically added language to our franchise statute last session to address and forbid this type of action from an OEM. WVADA will ban with NADA and other state associations to ensure that YOUR franchise law is protected and upheld.
Again, thanks to all of you for your continued support of WVADA. Here’s to a successful year behind us and an even more prosperous one ahead.
