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Bill

Bill

SB 774

Department of Real Estate and the Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers: Bureau of Automotive Repair.

2025-2026 Regular Session

SB 774 transfers California's Bureau of Automotive Repair from Consumer Affairs to the Department of Real Estate, consolidating regulatory oversight of auto repair shops with real estate appraisals starting January 2026.

Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 786, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · SB 774

Legislative bill overview

SB 774 reorganizes California's automotive repair oversight by transferring the Bureau of Automotive Repair from the Department of Consumer Affairs to the Department of Real Estate and the Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers. The bill consolidates consumer protection agencies under a new organizational structure, effective January 1, 2026.

Why is this important

This restructuring affects how California regulates the estimated 50,000+ automotive repair shops statewide and processes consumer complaints about repair fraud and deceptive practices. The consolidation could impact response times, complaint processing efficiency, and the level of specialized expertise dedicated to automotive repair enforcement compared to real estate appraisal oversight.

Potential points of contention

  • Organizational fit: Combining automotive repair regulation with real estate appraisal oversight under one department creates an unusual pairing of unrelated industries, potentially diluting focus and specialized expertise in automotive consumer protection
  • Staffing and resources: Transition during reorganization could create service gaps in complaint handling, license processing, and enforcement activities that directly affect consumers and repair shop operators
  • Regulatory effectiveness: Moving from a dedicated consumer affairs focus to a real estate-focused department may reduce prioritization of automotive repair issues despite their significant consumer impact

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

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