GNYADA December Newsletter

If You’re Having a Holiday Party – Consider Your Liability 07

Google’s New Transparency Rules Take Effect for Dealers 09

As the holiday season approaches, many dealerships are gearing up for festive gatherings to celebrate their hardworking staff. While these parties are an excellent way to boost morale and foster team spirit, it’s crucial to be mindful of potential liabilities. GNYADA recognizes the significance of ensuring a safe and enjoyable holiday party, and we recommend the following measures to protect both your employees and your dealership.

Google recently began enforcing new transparency standards for digital ads that feature pricing. Under the new rules, ads must clearly reflect what buyers will actually pay, including all required fees and terms. Offers that rely on fine print, vague disclaimers, or “free” claims that are not truly free are now being flagged and removed. Google’s Updated Policy Any ad that mentions a price or payment must reflect what a buyer will actually pay and how they will be charged. The policy requires advertisers to: • Show clear, complete pricing so users understand the true cost before purchase. • Avoid misleading formats or omissions, including hidden fees or undisclosed conditions. • Describe pricing and payment terms in plain language, so recurring charges or payment structures are obvious. • Use “free” only when no payment or obligation exists. • Ensure consistency between the ad and the landing page so users are not misled after clicking. Examples of Violations • Ad says “$299/month, $0 down” - requires $3,000 due at signing with no disclosure. • “New F-150s starting at $39,999” - no vehicle actually listed at that price on the website. • “0.0% APR on all models” - financing applies to only one or two models. • “Dealer fee included” - checkout adds a $699 processing fee.

• Vehicle Listing Ad shows $45,500 - feed not updated, website now shows $46,995. Why It Matters Google’s advertising standards update did not occur in a vacuum. It arrived at the same time regulators have been turning their attention to “junk fees” and deceptive pricing practices in retail advertising. Although Google is not a regulator, its control over online search and advertising gives it more influence on marketplace behavior than most government agencies. Staying Compliant • Review all active ad copy to confirm pricing accuracy. • Make sure landing pages display the same prices, terms, and conditions as the ad. • Use clear, visible disclaimers rather than small or hard- to-read fine print. • Avoid vague “free” or “limited-time” language unless it is fully explained. GNYADA thanks ComplyAuto for the contents of this article. To read the full article, click here.

HOLIDAY PARTY TIPS FOR DEALERSHIPS:

1. Keep Alcohol in Check If you serve alcohol, remove the opportunity to drink to excess by serving drinks during a limited time and offering only beer and wine. 2. Make Attendance Optional Party attendance should be voluntary, with no penalty for absence. 3. Reinforce Workplace Conduct Rules Remind staff that your dealership’s anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policies apply at all work- related events.

4. Review Safety & Insurance Coverage Confirm the venue meets safety standards, check whether Workers’ Comp applies, and review general liability and EPLI coverage before the event. 5. Keep It Inclusive Avoid tying the event to any particular religion, refer to it as a “holiday party” to create an inclusive atmosphere.

If you have questions, contact the association at 718.746.5900.

Are Your Service Uniforms Compliant? 08

Scotchgard™, may no longer be legal to purchase or sell in New York. Some protective gear (like flame- resistant coveralls or chemical splash suits) may be exempt, but standard service uniforms are not. What Dealers Should Do • Check your uniform supply for PFAS treatments. • Ask your vendor for documentation that confirms uniforms are PFAS-free.

New York State now prohibits the sale of uniforms containing intentionally added PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), a class of synthetic chemicals often used for stain, water, and grease resistance. If your dealership supplies uniforms for technicians, service advisors, porters, or lot attendants, this law likely affects you. Many commonly used uniforms, especially those treated with PFAS- based coatings such as Teflon™ or

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Avoid buying uniforms with “stain-resistant” or “water- repellent” labels unless verified PFAS-free.

Juliana Terian Named Chair of the New York State Auto Dealers Association 10

Don’t assume your current uniforms comply. Start talking to your vendor now, and make sure your next order meets the legal standard. PFAS-free options are already available. GNYADA’s DDC vendor, Cintas , offers fully compliant uniforms. For more information, contact Dominic Zanfardino at 631.617.8368.

GNYADA congratulates Juliana Terian, President and CEO of Rallye Motor Company, on being named Chair of the New York State Automobile Dealers Association. She assumed the role on November 13, 2025, during the Association’s Annual Meeting at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar. Terian is a respected industry leader with decades of experience, and she brings steady vision and strong leadership to the position. GNYADA wishes her the best of luck in her new role.