TRENTON, NJ – The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) is urging Governor Phil Murphy to sign the Motor Vehicle Open Recall Notice and Fair Compensation Act into law without amendment, calling the legislation a critical step toward ensuring fair pay for thousands of New Jersey auto technicians.
The bill (A4380/S3309), which passed the New Jersey Legislature with strong bipartisan support, would require dealership mechanics to receive equal pay for warranty and non-warranty repair work. The IAM represents hundreds of auto technicians across the state and argues that current wage disparities shortchange skilled labor and discourage workers from staying in or entering the field.
In a formal letter dated August 22, IAM International President Brian Bryant called on Gov. Murphy to sign the bill “as is” and reject any conditional veto that might dilute provisions related to labor time — a key component in determining technician compensation.
“This bill is about fairness for the hardworking men and women who keep New Jersey’s cars and trucks safely on the road,” the union said in a statement released Tuesday. “Gov. Murphy has an opportunity to not only improve the quality of life for workers and their families, but will also help recruit and retain a strong auto technician workforce to keep New Jersey moving forward.”
The legislation also includes provisions for customer notification of open recalls and addresses longstanding pay imbalances in the industry, where technicians often receive significantly lower compensation for warranty repairs compared to similar non-warranty work.
Industry advocates have warned that without such reform, New Jersey’s auto technician workforce could continue to face recruitment and retention challenges, as fewer young workers enter the trade due to unpredictable pay structures.
The IAM represents over 600,000 active and retired members across the country and is calling for swift, uncompromised action on the legislation, which now sits on Murphy’s desk awaiting signature.