CAWA along with industry partners Auto Care Association and LKQ Corporation, were successful in defeating Nevada’s AB 173 which sought to prohibit the use of aftermarket parts, require consumer waivers to use aftermarket parts and shed fear and doubt about the efficacy of aftermarket parts.
“Attempts like AB 173 to restrict or create fear in the minds of consumers over the use of aftermarket parts will face assertive push back by CAWA and other industry stakeholders in legislatures out west,” stated Rodney K. Pierini, CAWA President & CEO.
CAWA mounted an aggressive defense of aftermarket parts and brought several auto repair facility owners and other aftermarket parts experts to testify in opposition to the bill. Assemblyman Richard Carrillo was unable to advance his bill past the first committee, and the bill subsequently died when the legislative session officially adjourned on June 3.
“Consumers should have the right to repair their vehicles at the facility of their choice and use parts of their choice. Consumers should not be led to believe that the use of aftermarket parts will void their warranty because the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act prevents tying required use of particular parts to a motor vehicle’s warranty. The only people who would have benefited from this legislation are auto manufacturers and others seeking to make a profit by confusing consumers as to the safety and quality of aftermarket parts. This will not be tolerated by CAWA in any state we represent,” concluded Pierini.
Formed in 1955, CAWA is a trade association representing automotive parts manufacturers, jobbers, warehouse distributors, retailers and program groups. In the state of Nevada, the industry accounts for nearly 18,000 jobs, $1.1 billion in wages and $2.5 billion in economic output.
