S. 5978-A(Libous)/A. 9705(Morelle)

Rental Vehicles

Summary:  The bill Amends section 4 of Chapter 656 of the laws of 2002 amending Section 396-z of the General Business Law by extending the sunset provision from  February, 2008  to June 30, 2013.  Chapter 656 amended the General Business Law with respect to rental vehicles, including:

• Making vehicle renters responsible for damage to rental vehicles in their possession.
• Authorizing rental companies to make available optional vehicle protection (also known as a "collision damage waiver") which entitles the purchaser to a waiver of claim by the vehicle rental company with regard to virtually any damage to the vehicle, regardless of fault.
• Comprehensive consumer protection provisions, including measures designed to ensure that rental customers are aware that their automobile insurance policy may provide collision coverage while renting a vehicle.

Effective Date:  Immediately.

Last Action: Approved and signed by the Governor on February 19, 2008 (Chapter 14 of the Laws of 2008).