Bureau of Automotive Repair Adopts Regulations to Increase Assistance to Consumers Impacted by COVID-19

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 9, 2020

SACRAMENTO, CA – The Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) has adopted emergency regulations updating the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) to increase assistance contributions available to consumers during the ongoing state of emergency in California. The regulations increase the state’s contribution toward emissions-related repairs from a maximum of $500 to $1,200 for eligible consumers.

“The effects of COVID-19 have created many challenges for consumers that may negatively impact their ability to pay for emissions-related repairs required to pass Smog Check and complete the Department of Motor Vehicles’ registration renewal process,” said BAR Chief Patrick Dorais. “BAR sought the emergency regulatory action to improve access to required repairs and ensure critical workers and individuals reentering the workforce have reliable and safe transportation.”

CAP offers eligible consumers repair assistance and vehicle retirement options to help improve California’s air quality. The repair assistance option offers income-eligible consumers assistance towards emissions-related repairs at a STAR test-and-repair station if their vehicle fails its Smog Check inspection.

In addition to the increased state contribution, the regulations modify the consumer copay structure and relax some vehicle registration related eligibility requirements.

For more information, visit the Consumer Assistance Program page at www.bar.ca.gov.

CONTACT:
Matt Woodcheke
matt.woodcheke@dca.ca.gov

ABOUT THE BUREAU OF AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR: The California Bureau of Automotive Repair’s primary mission is to protect and serve California consumers through effective regulation of the automotive repair and Smog Check industry. Consumers can file automotive repair complaints by contacting the Bureau at (800) 952–5210. Consumers may also file a complaint online at www.bar.ca.gov.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS: The Department of Consumer Affairs promotes and protects the interests of California consumers while ensuring a competent and fair marketplace. The Department helps consumers learn how to protect themselves from unscrupulous and unqualified individuals. The Department also protects licensees from unfair competition by unlicensed practitioners. Consumers can file complaints against licensees by contacting the Department at (800) 952-5210. Consumers can also file a complaint online at www.dca.ca.gov.