Minnesota Senate OKs car buyers’ rights bill

03/29/2007

The Minnesota Senate voted 40 to 25 on Thursday to give car buyers two days to change their mind after driving a used vehicle off the sales lot.


Associated Press
Last update: March 29, 2007


The Minnesota Senate voted 40 to 25 on Thursday to give car buyers two days to change their mind after driving a used vehicle off the sales lot.

The "Car Buyers' Bill of Rights" would let consumers return used vehicles during the two-day window for a full refund, although they might have to pay a $125 to $500 restocking fee. The vehicle would have to be in the same condition and have been driven no more than 250 miles.

Modeled after a California law, the legislation would also make dealers break out the cost of add-on items such as alarm systems, rustproofing and service contracts. It would prohibit use of the "certified" label on damaged used vehicles or cars with altered odometers.

"This is the second-largest consumer purchase that most people make in their lifetime," said the sponsor, Sen. Ron Latz, DFL-St. Louis Park.

Opponents tried but failed to remove or shorten the waiting period, saying it could lead to abuses. "People may just come and buy a truck, move their belongings and then just return the truck," said Sen. Gen Olson, R-Minnetrista.

The House has yet to vote on the bill.