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Bill

SB 595

Mechanics and storage liens; vehicle data.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bill DeSteph

SB 595 modernizes Virginia's mechanics and storage lien laws while establishing vehicle data access rights for repair facilities and lien holders.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 826 (effective 7/1/2026)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 595

Legislative bill overview

SB 595 addresses mechanics' and storage facility liens on vehicles while establishing new requirements around access to vehicle data. The bill appears to modernize Virginia's lien law framework to address contemporary issues involving vehicle diagnostics, repair documentation, and data ownership as vehicles become increasingly computerized and connected.

Why is this important

As vehicles rely more heavily on electronic systems and proprietary diagnostic data, disputes over repair rights, data access, and lien enforcement have become more complex. This bill directly affects repair shops, vehicle owners, storage facilities, and potentially insurance companies by clarifying who can access vehicle data and under what circumstances liens can be placed or enforced—issues that impact both the cost of repairs and consumer rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Right-to-repair vs. manufacturer control: The bill may create friction between independent mechanics (who need diagnostic data access) and vehicle manufacturers (who claim proprietary software ownership), or it could favor one side depending on specific language
  • Lien enforcement scope: Defining what data or vehicle systems can be restricted by mechanics/storage facilities as leverage could unfairly advantage repair shops or leave consumers vulnerable to overreach
  • Data privacy concerns: Clarifying access to vehicle data raises questions about whether personal driving information, location history, or other sensitive data could be accessed or held during lien disputes

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

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