In a rare move, legislation went to the Delaware state House without a single hearing. Rushed through and passing, SB 278 will favor automobile dealers at the expense of consumers and even the state’s carbon reduction goals.
It is very disappointing that a state has rushed through a bill that grants dealer associations legal standing to sue without having to prove any damages. Research has shown that U.S. consumers pay approximately $3,000 more per vehicle because of protectionist laws like SB 278. This bill could even bar electric vehicle manufacturers from selling their products, which runs contrary to Delaware’s extremely ambitious carbon reductions goals and provisions to have 100 percent of new car sales be electric by 2035.
Citizens, including those in Delaware, are already struggling to make ends meet with record-high inflation rates. Not only will this further financial harm to the state’s constituents, but this will eliminate consumer choice.
SB 278 is not a pro-consumer bill and is not in the interest nor to the benefit of Delaware citizens. It is time for the Governor to veto the bill and open the issue up for public discussion next year.
Consumers matter.