Bipartisan legislation recently introduced in Michigan state Senate would make it easier for independent automotive repairers to operate.
Senate Bill 867 would allow a motor vehicle repair business that owns an additional facility to register that facility under the same registration and registration number as the business’ primary location. The additional facility must be located within a reasonable proximity of the main facility, serve as an extension of the main facility, and not operate independently.
The bill also would raise the reporting threshold if a corporation’s stock is sold or transferred from 10 percent to 25 percent.
In addition, registration would be able to be renewed for up to four years. Currently, registration must renewed annually.
Registration fees can cost up to $500 for each facility.
The bill has the support of the Automotive Service Association (ASA), a national trade association for independent automotive service and repair professionals.
“It makes no sense for an auto repairer to have to pay for and go through the process of registering twice for a single business operation just because it operates out of two or more buildings,” Roy Schnepper, ASA board member, said. “Running an auto repair business is a practice in small margins. Every dollar counts. SB 867 would make it easier for repairers to remain compliant with state law while simultaneously providing customers with high quality repairs.”