By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that makes online sales of cars subject to the same law as if the sales were executed at the dealership’s physical place of business.

Supporters said the bill aims to modernize the law regarding online car buying by not forcing dealers to provide a three-day return policy for online auto purchases. The measure would make it so the businesses selling these cars would have the choice to make all purchases final as long as that fact is clearly disclosed to the customer, instead of making the dealer pay for the sometimes significant transportation costs associated with a customer changing their mind. They noted that people shopping for a car online have the benefit of a lot of information to make this important decision, as well as the luxury to shop for many cars at once located over a great distance.

“Due to the increasing reliance on online automotive purchases and the changing landscape of the modern economy, this legislation would modernize the motor vehicle purchase process by bringing online automotive purchases into the 21st century,” said co-sponsor Rep. Jack Lewis (D-Framingham). “This legislation does not have any impact on current consumer protections such as inspections or lemon laws.”

“I’m proud to join auto dealers in Framingham and across the commonwealth in keeping up with how car buying takes place in 2024,” said co-sponsor Rep. Priscila Sousa (D-Framingham). “I believe if shoppers are given the proper information to make an informed decision, auto dealers should not be forced to adhere to antiquated policies that ultimately hurt our businesses. The passing of this bill would make the benefits of online car buying more evenly shared between the dealer and customer while still protecting both.”