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Bill

S 291

An Act relative to vehicle recalls

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Pavel Payano and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill establishing or modifying vehicle recall procedures to enhance manufacturer compliance and consumer safety protections in the state.

Accompanied a new draft, see S2664
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Bill Summary · S 291

Legislative bill overview

S 291 is a Massachusetts bill addressing vehicle recall procedures and requirements. Based on the legislative history, the bill has been revised (with a new draft S2664 introduced in November 2025) and was referred to the Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee for evaluation.

Why is this important

Vehicle recalls are critical safety mechanisms that protect consumers from defective automobiles that pose hazards. Clear state-level recall procedures ensure manufacturers comply with safety standards and that Massachusetts residents are adequately informed when dangerous vehicles require repair.

Potential points of contention

  • Manufacturer compliance burden: Stricter recall notification or documentation requirements could increase costs for manufacturers operating in Massachusetts
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Ambiguity over whether Massachusetts creates independent enforcement authority or relies on federal NHTSA oversight
  • Consumer remedy scope: Disagreement over what remedies (repairs, refunds, replacements) the state can require versus federal authority under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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