AUGUSTA (AP) – Car dealers are lining up against a bill that would allow them to sell vehicles on Sundays.

At a public hearing Tuesday, several auto dealers told the Legislature’s Business, Research and Economic Development Committee that allowing Sunday car sales would add new costs but wouldn’t result in increased sales.

It is now illegal for dealers to sell cars, trucks or motorcycles on Sunday.

Dealers said their employees need a day off for rest and to spend with their families. They also maintained that some consumers like to browse dealer lots without the pressure of a salesman.

“It will hurt small and medium-sized dealerships,” said Tom Brown of the Maine Auto Dealers Association.

Rep. Kenneth Lindell, R-Frankfort, the sponsor of the bill, said busy families should have the option of buying a car on Sunday. Lindell, the only person to testify in favor of the bill, said his aim is to reduce state regulation over business.

“The constituent who requested this bill is a working parent who believes that the current law unfairly restricts her ability to shop for a new vehicle on her weekends,” Lindell said.

Legislators for years have defeated various bills that would allow car dealers to stay open seven days a week. The Maine Automobile Dealers Association has consistently opposed an exemption allowing Sunday car sales.

In a written statement submitted to the committee, Shepard Lee, chairman of Lee Auto Malls, said he’s fought against similar bills for five decades. He said most dealers are open six days a week and many evenings, which gives customers ample time to buy a vehicle.

“Car salesman and other dealer personnel are human beings with wives, children and family responsibilities, and the only day they can be sure of being able to spend time with their family is Sunday,” he said.