Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7605

Introduced
2/11/26  

Caption

Deceptive trade practice to sell vehicle used in violent crime or exposed to biohazards without notice to purchaser.

Impact

The implications of H7605 are far-reaching as it introduces legal obligations for vehicle sellers, ensuring that critical information about the vehicle's use is disclosed to potential buyers. By legislating transparency and accountability, the bill aims to prevent inadvertent buyer deception. If enacted, the legislation will redefine existing consumer protection laws, particularly modifying the way sellers inform customers about the condition and history of their vehicles, thus fortifying the rights of consumers against unfair practices.

Summary

House Bill H7605 seeks to amend the existing regulations on deceptive trade practices, specifically targeting the sale of motor vehicles. This legislation aims to protect consumers from the risks associated with purchasing vehicles that have been previously involved in a violent crime or those exposed to biohazardous contamination. Under the terms of H7605, sellers will be mandated to provide written notice to buyers about the vehicle's history concerning crime or contamination prior to the sale. This measure is seen as a significant step towards enhancing consumer protection in the state's auto market.

Contention

There may be some contention surrounding this bill from various stakeholders in the automotive industry. While consumer advocacy groups are likely to support stringent disclosure laws to protect buyers, some sellers might oppose the added regulations and liability. Debate may arise regarding the practicality of enforcing such disclosures, including how it impacts the sale of used vehicles and the administrative burdens it may place on small dealerships. The implementation of these requirements and the penalties for non-compliance could be focal points of discussions as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5247

Provides that advertising goods that don't include a price referencing all mandatory fees and charges shall be a deceptive trade practice.

RI S0017

Provide that advertising goods that don't include a price referencing all mandatory fees and charges shall be a deceptive trade practice.

RI H6393

Limits the facility's ability to charge rent and fees for a maximum of seven (7) days or until removal of the personal property from the room, whichever occurs first. A violation would constitute a deceptive trade practice.

RI S0071

Provides protection and prevents the unethical, improper conduct and the collection of fees, by anyone advising or assisting a veteran filing a claim for disability benefits with the Department of Veterans Affairs, except as authorized by federal law.

RI H5043

Provides protection from and prevent the unethical, improper conduct and the collection of fees by, anyone advising or assisting a veteran filing a claim for disability benefits with the Department of Veterans Affairs except as authorized by federal law.

RI H6053

Makes it an unfair claims practice for insurer to designate a motor vehicle a total loss if the cost to repair motor vehicle to its pre-accident condition is less than 75% to 80% of the fair market value.

RI S0902

Makes it an unfair claims practice for insurer to designate a motor vehicle a total loss if the cost to repair motor vehicle to its pre-accident condition is less than 85% of the fair market value.

RI S0816

Creates the deceptive and fraudulent synthetic media in election communications chapter to regulate the use of synthetic media in elections.

RI H5872

Creates the deceptive and fraudulent synthetic media in election communications chapter to regulate the use of synthetic media in elections.

RI H5343

Takes several measures to lead by example by banning state purchases of plastic bottles, and requires state funds to be used to lease or purchase electric vehicles and renewable energy efficient technologies for use on state property.

Similar Bills

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CA SB1050

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HI SB2733

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CA AB840

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CA SB783

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CA AB770

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AZ HB2179

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CA SB1228

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