Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB155

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  
Refer
9/30/24  
Report Pass
10/1/24  
Engrossed
10/1/24  
Refer
10/2/24  
Refer
10/22/24  
Report Pass
10/23/24  
Refer
10/23/24  
Report Pass
11/13/24  
Enrolled
11/13/24  
Chaptered
11/18/24  

Caption

Further providing for definitions, for repair obligations, for manufacturer's duty for refund or replacement and for presumption of a reasonable number of attempts.

Impact

The implications of SB155 include an expanded framework that manufacturers must adhere to when faced with complaints about vehicle nonconformities. The bill stipulates that manufacturers must repair or replace defective vehicles after a reasonable number of attempts, with explicit provisions regarding the duty to refund or replace vehicles if repairs are unsuccessful. By establishing these clearer guidelines, the bill seeks to hold manufacturers accountable and ensure consumers can secure replacements or refunds more readily when faced with ongoing vehicle issues.

Summary

Senate Bill 155 aims to amend the existing Automobile Lemon Law of Pennsylvania, specifically updating the definitions and clarifying the obligations of manufacturers regarding defective new motor vehicles. The bill expands the definition of 'new motor vehicle' to include more types of vehicles like dual sport motorcycles while setting clear criteria regarding what constitutes a 'nonconformity'. This legislative change is intended to strengthen consumer protections for individuals purchasing or leasing new vehicles that may have defects impairing their safety, use, or value.

Sentiment

General sentiment around the bill appears to be positive with respect to consumer advocacy groups, as it offers increased protections for consumers against defective vehicles. However, it may face opposition from some manufacturers due to potential financial implications and the need for compliance with the more rigorous regulations. Advocates for the bill argue that it is essential for consumer trust in the automobile market, while critics may raise concerns about how these changes could affect smaller manufacturers or lead to increased costs for consumers.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB155 centers on the balance between consumer protection and the practicality for manufacturers in addressing complaints. Proponents argue that the bill enhances consumer rights and safety, yet opponents may highlight that the expanded definitions and obligations could impose undue burdens on manufacturers, particularly smaller operations. The amendments to the presumption of a reasonable number of attempts to resolve issues may also lead to litigation if disagreements arise over whether a manufacturer has met its obligations appropriately.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB804

Further providing for definitions and for repair obligations; and applying the act to recreational vehicles.

PA HB112

Further providing for definitions.

PA SB1317

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in duties of manufacturers and retailers, further providing for sales prohibition, for registration and for manufacturer plan and reporting; and, in administration, further providing for duties of department, for annual report and for enforcement.

PA HB2296

Further providing for definitions; and providing for siting of wetland replacement.

PA SB1182

Further providing for title of act; in preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in vehicles, further providing for license to engage in business, for reimbursement for all parts and service required by the manufacturer or distributor and reimbursement audits, for unlawful acts by manufacturers or distributors and for manufacturer or distributor repurchase of inventory and equipment and providing for consumer data protection.

PA HB1755

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in powers and duties, further providing for power of commission to require insurance.

PA SB1266

In juvenile matters, further providing for definitions, providing for financial obligations imposed on child and further providing for disposition of delinquent child.

PA HB1065

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for definitions and providing for the offense of sale of firearm or firearm parts without serial numbers and for privately made firearms.

PA HB1996

Further providing for definitions and for unlawful acts or practices and exclusions.

PA SB1077

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in registration of vehicles, providing for issuance of roadable aircraft registration plates; in special vehicles and pedestrians, providing for roadable aircraft; in inspection of vehicles, further providing for requirement for periodic inspection of vehicles and providing for specific vehicle inspection; and, in snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles, further providing for definitions.

Similar Bills

NM SB236

Look Twice For Motorcycle License Plate

MI SR0044

A resolution to designate May 2025 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

MI HR0101

A resolution to declare May 2025 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.

HI HB220

Relating To Moped Insurance.

HI HB220

Relating To Moped Insurance.

HI SB2226

Relating To Motorcycles.

MI HR0305

A resolution to declare May 2026 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.

NJ S2102

Requires motorcycle passengers to be 10 years of age or older.