Today, SB 377 was heard by the Senate Business and Insurance Committee. The bill sponsor, Senator Avery Frix (R), presented a committee substitute that reflects negotiated changes agreed to by the association and manufacturers. The bill was subsequently passed unanimously by all 10 members of the committee. The bill now heads to the Senate floor for a vote.
In its amended form, the bill still provides greater control for dealers over changes in executive management and transfers of the business. The negotiated language also amends competing lines provisions and provides a carve out threshold based on percentage of sales and sales volume. Taken together, these changes will greatly strengthen dealer protections in Oklahoma while neutralizing some manufacturers’ concerns. Our position statement submitted to the committee provides more information about these changes.
We will continue to keep you updated on the status of this legislation as it moves forward. Please contact me directly if you have any questions or concerns about the bill or any other issues before the legislature.
