By Bob Katzen

The Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters say will modernize protections for consumers in automobile transactions. The bill adds legal safeguards for buyers who purchase used and leased cars in Massachusetts by creating new consumer protections in the car buying process.

A key provision expands the Lemon Aid Law by providing consumers seven days from the date of delivery to inspect their vehicle and obtain a full refund if the vehicle fails inspection. Current law provides this return privilege seven days from the date of sale.

Other provisions would ensure those who lease a vehicle have the same rights to repossession notice and right to cure as those who finance a vehicle; and increase the used vehicle warranty from 125,000 miles to 150,000 miles – a move supporters say that will protect consumers who purchase more affordable vehicles with higher mileage.

Supporters say the bill would expand the rights of car buyers who expect a purchased vehicle to be in a state of good repair and free of problems.

“I am … proud that the Senate has passed legislation I have filed to update Massachusetts used vehicle statutes and close existing loopholes in our laws that prevent the attorney general from adequately protecting consumers during a used car purchase,” said sponsor Sen. Paul Feeney (D-Foxborough).

(A “Yes” vote is for the bill.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes