I am disappointed to announce that my consumer protection bill, SB 76, which would have shielded Californians purchasing used vehicles from being forced to pay another person’s delinquent registration fees, has been vetoed by Governor Gavin Newsom.
Currently, buyers who purchase a used vehicle from a private seller often discover that they are suddenly responsible for hidden back registration fees owed by the previous owner. These surprise costs can run into the thousands and leave consumers with a car they cannot legally drive.
SB 76 would have ended this unfair practice by tying outstanding fees to the seller’s driver’s license instead of the vehicle, ensuring that individuals are not forced to pay penalties they did not incur.
In his veto message, Governor Newsom claimed that SB 76 would create “significant operational challenges” and that shifting responsibility away from the car itself and onto the seller’s driver’s license would be “administratively burdensome” and could disrupt revenue collection. You can view his veto message HERE.
Families should not be penalized for debts that do not belong to them. The Governor’s claim that this would be too burdensome for DMV ignores the fact that the Department already tracks debts tied to license holders, just as it does with unpaid tickets or suspensions.
By vetoing SB 76, the Governor has prioritized bureaucratic convenience over consumer fairness, leaving Californians exposed to unexpected costs of hundreds or even thousands of dollars.”
Buying a car is already one of the largest expenses most families face. This was a simple, bipartisan consumer protection bill that would have given Californians peace of mind.
Instead, the Governor has left car buyers vulnerable and unprotected. This veto sends the wrong message to hardworking families who are just trying to stay on the road.”
Transportation costs already consume a large share of household budgets, especially for low-income families. With the average price of a new vehicle now exceeding $47,000, many Californians rely on private-party used car sales to afford transportation.
SB 76 earned bipartisan support with no opposition in the Senate and Assembly.
Though I am disappointed with this outcome, please be assured I will continue to fight for the interests of our communities and our 32nd District.
Thank you for this opportunity to be of service.