Governor Hochul Signs Car Leasing Bill Despite Statewide Concerns and Particular from Jewish Leaders

By Williamsburg 365 Staff

Governor Kathy Hochul’s recent decision to sign the car leasing bill (Assembly Bill 3499-B) into law has sparked significant controversy and huge pushback from the entire State, including among New York’s Jewish leaders and politicians who had presented a united front in opposition, as reported.

The bill, which amends the General Business Law and the Vehicle and Traffic Law to regulate automobile broker businesses more strictly, was seen as a betrayal after the governor initially gave assurances she would reconsider.

The bill introduces stricter regulations for automobile brokers, including the requirement to maintain official business locations, use written contracts, ensure clear advertisement disclosures, and safeguard consumer data. It also mandates complicated disclosures about broker services, which opponents believe will place an undue burden on brokers, potentially driving many out of business and reducing competition in the auto market.

“In a meeting with Jewish leaders just four days before signing the bill, Hochul reportedly indicated she would ‘look into’ their concerns,” said a source involved in the case for Williamsburg365. “Her subsequent decision to move forward has been described by some in the community as a ‘stab in the back,’ given the strong opposition they had expressed.”

“Among askanim there was never a united front against a bill such as this one.” The source concluded.

Williamsburg365 reached out to the Governor's office for a comment but was referred to her statement upon signing the legislation:

"This legislation will enhance consumer protections and confidence in automobile broker businesses by requiring brokers to maintain places of business, use written contracts, make appropriate disclosures in advertisements, and secure consumer data.

I support smart consumer protections across all industries and recognize the importance of this bill."

Williamsburg365 reached out to NYS Senator Julia Salazar, who worked tirelessly with the community against this bill, but no comment was provided as of the time this article was published.

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