Rupp’s Measure Addressing Fraudulent Motor Vehicle Contracts Signed by Governor

JEFFERSON CITY — On July 7, SB 132, sponsored by Sen. Scott T. Rupp, , was signed by Governor Jay Nixon. The legislation will address fraudulent motor vehicle contracts and warranties, as well as vehicle licensing, the “free look” period, deceptive practices, the suspension and revocation of licenses, and the registry of motor vehicles.

“I’m thrilled that the governor understood the importance of this legislation, and now Missourians will be better protected against motor vehicle warranty fraud,” Sen. Rupp said. “I became increasingly aware of how much of a problem this type of fraud can be in 2009, when the attorney general’s office received countless complaints from honest Missourians who were scammed by unregistered and deceptive salesmen who lied to them about their vehicle warranties and sold them invalid products.”

In April 2009, Sen. Rupp, the state attorney general and several others formed a task force to discuss the problem. As a result, Sen. Rupp filed SB 132.

“This act will allow Missourians to have confirmation that they are purchasing a fair motor vehicle warranty and will require that proper documentation is filed at purchase, giving our citizens the peace of mind of knowing they are doing business safely,” Sen. Rupp said.

The bill was passed unanimously by the Legislature during the last week of the 2011 legislative session. Hours after the bill’s passage, some of the companies that have been in litigation began calling the attorney general’s office to settle their cases.  

To learn more about legislation Sen. Rupp sponsored and handled throughout the 2011 legislative session, visit www.senate.mo.gov/rupp and click on his “Sponsored” and “Co-Sponsored” bills link under the “Legislation” tab.