News

July 23, 2026

Hudson Cook Partner Webb McArthur Discusses State Data Privacy Compliance for Auto Dealers

Hudson Cook Partner Webb McArthur was recently quoted in Automotive News by Frances Klemm in the July 20, 2026 article, "What Dealers Need to Know About State Data Privacy Compliance," discussing the increasingly complex privacy compliance landscape facing automobile dealers.

McArthur discussed how manufacturers' compliance strategies can significantly affect what dealers are expected to do with consumer information, including through data-sharing agreements. He noted that manufacturers may expect the same level of data protection regardless of jurisdiction.

For example, dealers may receive connected car data from automakers to send consumers service reminders. In those situations, McArthur said dealers should expect to be asked to comply with consumer requests to dispose of that information, and that most data-sharing agreements will require dealers to "reasonably assist" with automakers' compliance efforts.

McArthur recommends that dealers seek legal counsel, follow guidance from their state associations, and work with compliance vendors to help understand applicable regulations. He also advises dealers to create a data inventory so they understand what information they possess and how applicable regulations and contracts govern its management.

Keeping pace with changing requirements presents another challenge. McArthur noted that the "vast majority" of states have changed their privacy laws at least once, while most have changed them multiple times. As laws and contracts continue to change, he recommends that dealers seek guidance when receiving or sharing new data.

"I think this is not something that we're ever going to fully settle in complying with these very complex, and in many cases, abstract laws," McArthur told the publication. "[It's] hard to say that anyone is ever in full compliance with any of these laws, at least based on the perspective of a regulator."

Subscribers can read the full article, "What Dealers Need to Know About State Data Privacy Compliance," https://www.autonews.com/regulation-safety/an-dealer-data-sharing-privacy-0720/

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