October 14, 2025
Standing Up for Dealers in Washington: Solera’s NIADA Policy Conference Recap
Standing Up for Dealers in Washington: Solera’s NIADA Policy Conference Recap
Event: National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) Policy Conference — Washington, D.C., Sept.
At Solera, advocacy isn’t a slogan—it’s part of how we serve the industry every day. On September 15–16, our team joined franchise and independent dealers from across the country in Washington, D.C., for the NIADA Policy Conference with a single purpose: champion the issues that matter most to operators on the front lines of retail automotive. We came prepared with data, real-world dealer stories, and a clear set of policy asks tied to day-to-day realities on the lot and in the service drive.
We also put our support into motion. As the conference’s Sponsor, Solera underwrote the event, produced the Capitol Hill map dealers carried from office to office, and sponsored the “Day on the Hill” transportation program that delivered all 150 participating dealers to their meetings on time. From the
first briefing to the last debrief, our goal was simple: remove friction so dealers could focus on the message (and therefore on their customers).
Leadership on the Hill mattered
Solera attendees Earl Brown and Rob Honkomp worked an ambitious agenda with separate cohorts throughout the day. Earl was voted group leader of his cohort—which included both dealers, partners, and Automobile Dealer Association executives—giving Solera the privilege to coordinate, introduce, and lead all official group conversations in those meetings. That role also created additional access to lawmakers and staffers before and after sessions to recap key points and discuss our long-standing partnership between Solera, LoJack, and law enforcement, most recently expanded with LoJack LE—the company’s free technology that helps law enforcement agencies more easily and safely battle stolen-vehicle crime while reducing the risk of violent encounters.
What we asked for on behalf of dealers
· PART Act (theft deterrence): Support VIN/ID marking and enforcement tools that curb catalytic-converter theft—protecting lot inventory, reducing recon and insurance losses, and improving customer satisfaction after the sale.
· TABS Act (predictable oversight): Advocate for Congressional appropriations oversight of the CFPB to ensure clear, consistent guidance for auto retail and F&I—reducing compliance whiplash for single-store and multi-rooftop groups alike.
· Rectifying UDAAP (clarity on “abusive”): Establish a workable statutory definition to eliminate gray areas, align in-store and digital-retail practices nationwide, and lower everyday sales/F&I risk.
· FTC dealer rulemaking (CARS Rule context): Encourage evidence-based, targeted transparency—streamlined disclosures that inform customers without duplicative forms that slow deliveries and increase costs.
· Data security (GLBA execution): Promote workable, scalable Safeguards compliance and vendor accountability—protecting consumer data while minimizing operational drag; highlight enterprise-grade partners who share that commitment.
· SID (Starter Interrupt Device) policy: Support safe, compliant use that preserves effective collections and consumer communication tools while avoiding blanket prohibitions that harm credit-challenged buyers and small businesses.
Who we met
Over the course of the day, Solera and GoldStar joined dealers in visiting nearly a dozen federal lawmakers and staff, including offices representing a wide spectrum of influence in both chambers—ranging from the senior staff for Senator Chuck Schumer and Senator Cory Booker, to Senator Mike Lee, Senator Tim Kane, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Anthony Kim, and members of the House such as Rep. Frank Pallone and Rep. Roger Williams, both with deep personal and family ties to retail automotive. The breadth of these conversations ensured that the dealer voice was heard across committees and caucuses.
Why it matters
Dealers are navigating real-world challenges—rising theft and catalytic-converter losses, fast-shifting compliance expectations, and the ongoing need to safeguard customer data without slowing operations. Our policy positions reflect the day-to-day realities you face in the showroom and service drive. They also draw on capabilities Solera brings to the table through our vehicle and dealer solutions portfolio, including GoldStar and LoJack. These solutions help protect assets, streamline operations, and support safer communities—complementing the legislative fixes we pressed for in D.C.
Results you can feel
The Hill meetings generated productive follow-up with offices that influence consumer protection, commerce, and public safety policy. In both groups, Solera kept their cohorts aligned on the message: rules should be clear, targeted, and data-driven; they should protect consumers without undermining access to credit, inventory security, or the ability to operate efficiently. Lawmakers and staff responded with questions on implementation, costs, and real-store impact—exactly the dialogue dealers need to keep shaping.
What’s next
Solera will continue working with NIADA, state associations, and dealer partners to track the PART Act, TABS Act, UDAAP clarity efforts, and FTC rulemaking. We’ll share timely updates and practical playbooks to help your teams stay compliant and competitive—whether you’re a single-point independent or a large franchise group. If you want your perspective included in future briefings or would like help articulating the impact in your district, we’re ready to partner.
Bottom line
Solera is doing direct, significant work on behalf of car dealers, their customers, and the industry as a whole. From sponsoring the conference and transporting all 150 dealers to the Hill, to leading cohort discussions and engaging lawmakers on the specifics that matter, we’re in the trenches with you—advocating for practical, pro-dealer policies and safer communities. Thank you to every dealer who made the trip. Let’s keep the momentum going.
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