Rondis Cavender will be making his first appearance at the NIADA Policy Conference next month.
Inspired by hearing from other dealers, the president and CEO of Cavender Auto Sales in Gainesville, Ga., felt compelled to join the advocacy effort with NIADA on Capitol Hill.
“With the feedback from other dealers, I thought it would be beneficial to be part of,” Cavender said.
A few spots remain open for registration for the NIADA Policy Conference Sept. 19-20 at the Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City. The deadline to book a hotel room is Aug. 16, but the limited inventory may sell out before.
The two-day event brings dealers together with members of Congress and regulators to discuss real legislative and regulatory issues facing the independent automobile industry. Dealers participation will play a critical role discussing the unique problems and challenges facing the industry with legislators and describing the impact of policies on their business.
Among issues the NIADA will be addressing with lawmakers are the Federal Trade Commission’s Vehicle Shopping Rule, Right to Repair and legislation to prevent catalytic converter thefts.
The NIADA is asking Congress to stop the Vehicle Shopping Rule, which would add costs, more paperwork and extend the sales process. The FTC published the rule in July 2022 and NIADA supported industry opposition of the rule. On July 13, the House Appropriations Committee reported out the Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Services and General Government appropriations bill, which included language that stops the FTC from finalizing, implementing, or enforcing the Vehicle Shopping Rule.
NIADA continues to support the proposed “Preventing Auto Recycling Theft Act” in the House of Representatives and Senate, which would assist law enforcement in their efforts to combat catalytic converter theft by marking catalytic converters and creating a more transparent market that deters its theft.
In February, the NIADA acknowledged support for Congressman Neal Dunn (R-FL-2), reintroducing the REPAIR Act.
The legislation would ensure consumers have access to data relating to their motor vehicles, critical repair information, tools, and provide them choices for the maintenance, service and repair of their motor vehicles.
Cavender said these three issues “absolutely” impact independent dealers.
The conference will include meetings with federal agencies and regulatory dignitaries Sept. 19. On Sept. 20, there will be Capitol Hill meetings.
Dealers are urged to register soon to allow NIADA staff an opportunity to set up meetings with legislators representing the individual dealer’s district.
Register for the conference here.
