Except as otherwise provided by §§ 32-6B-79 to 32-6B-83, inclusive, no manufacturer or franchisor may directly or indirectly:

1. (1) Own an interest in a vehicle dealer or dealership;
2. (2) Operate or control a vehicle dealer or dealership; or
3. (3) Act in the capacity of a vehicle dealer. This section does not apply to a final stage manufacturer dealer.

Source: SL 2000, ch 151 , § 2; SL 2012, ch 165 , § 4.