Minn. Senate approves `Car Buyers' Bill of Rights'
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(AP) The Minnesota Senate voted Thursday to give car buyers two days to change their minds 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 like 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.
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The bill passed on a vote of 40 to 25. 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.
Democrats who control the Legislature have put more attention on consumer protection measures this session, including moves to regulate gift cards and tighten oversight of the insurance and mortgage lending industries.
The House passed a bill Thursday that attempts to protect home loan borrowers from getting talked into mortgages they can't afford.
The House has yet to vote on the car buyers' bill, which would take effect Jan. 1.
