Over the past year, we’ve had some meaningful and very visible successes for North Carolina’s franchised dealers.
From the passage of comprehensive franchise legislation to continued progress on DMV modernization and other proactive initiatives, there is real momentum behind our efforts to protect and strengthen the franchise system in this state. These are visible wins we should all be proud of.
But we should also recognize that some of the most important work we do never makes headlines. One of the realities of effective advocacy is that sometimes, very little appears to happen.
There are no headlines when a harmful provision never makes it into a bill. No press releases when a regulatory proposal is revised before it ever gains traction. No alerts when early conversations, backed by the credibility of local dealers across North Carolina, help resolve an issue before it ever becomes a problem.
Yet those moments happen every day on behalf of North Carolina’s franchised dealers.
Much of NCADA’s work takes place well before an issue ever reaches the public stage. It happens in early conversations with legislators, regulators and agency staff. It happens when draft language is reviewed, unintended consequences are identified, and practical alternatives are offered with solutions that protect consumers without creating unnecessary burdens for local dealerships.
It also happens when policymakers reach out to NCADA first — not because they have to, but because they trust our perspective and value our input. As we enter the 2026 legislative session, that early engagement becomes even more critical.
By the time a bill is filed, many of the most important decisions have already been made. The relationships we’ve built, the credibility we’ve earned and the consistent presence we maintain throughout the year all help ensure that our industry’s voice is part of those formative early discussions.
In many cases, success simply means maintaining the status quo.
That may not sound exciting, but for dealers, stability matters. Avoiding unnecessary regulation, preventing one-size-fits-all mandates and ensuring that any changes to the law reflect operational realities can save significant time, cost and disruption for both dealers and their customers. When the system works as it should, most dealers will never know how close a proposal came to creating real challenges.
These outcomes don’t happen by chance.
They are the result of sustained engagement, strong relationships and a reputation built on credibility and professionalism. They are supported by dealers who invest in AutoPAC, stay involved and step up when needed. And they are made possible by an association that is engaged every day, not just when the General Assembly is in session.
That is especially important as we head into what is expected to be an active 2026 legislative session, with continued attention on issues impacting our industry.
While not every win can or should be visible, I want our members to know this: NCADA is working every day to protect your businesses, your employees and the communities you serve.
Even when you don’t see it, the work is happening, and it’s making a real difference.
John Policastro
NCADA President
