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By Alex Nuti-di Biasi
Vermont is among the 35 states to reach agreements with the Kia and Hyundai automakers to retrofit existing models with anti-theft technology, the Journal-Opinion reports today.
“Hyundai and Kia are still experiencing fallout from the viral 2021 TikTok trend that led to a huge surge in stolen vehicles around the country,” reports Car and Driver. “The two automakers continued to build cars without an important anti-theft device called an engine immobilizer for years after most other automakers made them standard, which made them the perfect target for thieves.”
Some 9 million cars dating back to the 2011 model year will be eligible for free upgrades. Per the state attorneys general, eligible consumers will be notified by the companies that they will have one year from the date of the notice to make an appointment to have the zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protector installed at their local Hyundai or Kia authorized dealerships.
Both manufacturers have websites for more info, including about eligibility:
Unclaimed property checks to be sent – The JO also reports that more than a 1,000 Vermonters can expect checks from the state’s Unclaimed Property division this holiday season.
“The MoneyBack program is an annual effort between the Treasurer’s Office and the Administration to proactively return unclaimed property to Vermonters whose identity and address can be verified by shareable Tax Department data,” state officials announced. “This year, the program will return over $150,000 to over 1,000 Vermonters with claims ranging from $100 to $250. The average amount returned is about $150.”
Vermonters will first receive a letter with a check following in the mail a few days later.
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Categories: Business
Suing a car manufacturer for insufficient security features is maybe appropriate, but Vermont is a state where the THEFT of one’s automobile is statutorily defined as “operating a vehicle without owner’s consent” and like most property crimes is sanctioned with a stern look of indignation and finger wag from a judge. In days of old, if you STOLE someone’s conveyance, to wit their horse, you were fitted with a noose. TikTok treats grand theft auto like it’s fun and games or a dare like the “cinnamon challenge”. Eliminate TikTok and liberal judges please and the problem is largely solved without an inconvenient trip to the auto dealer.