Regulated Industries and Utilities
SB 81
This bill revises laws associated with Georgia’s Motor Vehicle Franchise Protection Act as a reaction to industry changes throughout the last few years. The revisions include legislative findings, data protection, over the air updates (OTAs), product allocation, and showrooms/galleries. Changes to these areas seek to address concerns from the public (like product recalls), emphasize practices to encourage competition in the franchise system, protect customer and dealer data, and ensure fair compensation for dealers and transparency for consumers
The bill passed committee.
SB 94
This bill will reestablish a consumer utility counsel to represent consumers in matters before the Public Service Commission or other agencies concerning public utilities. This counsel has previously existed and was dissolved in 2008 as a cost-saving measure during the recession. A similar body exists in Georgia, but it is under the Public Services Commission. The reinstated counsel would be under the Attorney General’s office allowing them to be independent from utility services.
The bill passed committee.
SB 112
This bill deals with extended warranties on HVAC products. The bill would remove the requirement that a consumer register their new system with the manufacturer to activate the warranty. The warranty would be active as soon as a licensed contractor installs your system. The warranty would be required to be transferable such that the warranty stays with the products and not the purchaser of it. This bill benefits both consumers and the installers of the HVAC systems.
The bill passed committee.
