The National Automobile Dealers Association and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation are asking President Donald Trump to issue national guidance that dealerships be considered essential businesses amid forced closures of retailers in certain jurisdictions across the country as a result of the novel coronavirus outbreak.
“It is vital that vehicle repair, maintenance and sales facilities be considered essential operations when federal, state and local officials impose certain requirements due to the coronavirus outbreak,” according to a letter delivered to the president late Tuesday and signed by Peter Welch, CEO of NADA, and John Bozzella, CEO of the Alliance, which represents manufacturers and other companies.
The letter also was sent to Vice President Mike Pence, other Cabinet members, Senate and House leaders and the 50 state governors. The letter highlights the work dealerships provide on vehicles such as needed safety recall repairs and automaker warranty work.
“We hereby…
