EPIC-MRA Survey Shows Michigan Consumers Want Repeal of Sunday Blue Law

EPIC-MRA Survey Shows Michigan Consumers Want Repeal of Sunday Blue Law

    LANSING, Mich., June 26 -- A new survey completed by EPIC-MRA
shows that Michigan consumers support the repeal of the Sunday Blue Law that
prevents them from purchasing an automobile on Sunday.
    The survey, conducted in early June, asked 600 people throughout the state
of Michigan whether or not they would support the repeal of the law preventing
automobile sales in Michigan counties with a population of more than 130,000
-- 60 percent were in favor of the repeal.
    The Sunday Blue Law was passed back in 1953, and it prevents the opening
of any retail or wholesale new and used car business on Sunday.  Counties with
a population of less than 130,000 are allowed to sell cars on Sunday.
    James G. Berry, II, an Okemos, Michigan attorney and lobbyist, feels the
Sunday Blue Law is antiquated because consumers' lifestyles and buying habits
are different now than they were 44 years ago.  Berry is drafting a repeal for
the Sunday Blue Law and seeking Michigan legislative and consumer support.
    "Market research shows that Sunday is second only to Saturday as a
preferred shopping day for automobiles," said Berry.  "Purchasing an
automobile is a major financial decision, second only to purchasing a home.
Home purchases on Sunday have been allowed for many years.  Allowing Sunday
sales in all counties will give consumers more time to make an informed
decision about price, selection and service between competing auto
dealerships.  Repealing the Sunday Blue Law is pro-consumer legislation that
will give consumers the choices they deserve when making the important
decision to purchase an automobile. "
    Those who opposed the repeal of the law did so because of religious
beliefs and because they felt salespeople shouldn't have to work seven days a
week.
    The survey was commissioned by AutoNation USA, that has so far made an
investment of $50 million in Michigan, with two stores -- one in Sterling
Heights, the other in Canton.  AutoNation USA is also scouting additional
sites for new stores in Michigan.
    AutoNation USA is a new concept for the used car industry.  It sells
Reconditioned to Perform Like New(SM) vehicles in a remarkably pleasant
shopping environment.

SOURCE  EPIC-MRA