The Automotive Service Association (ASA) is asking Louisiana repairers and vehicle owners to urge their state representatives to oppose legislation aimed at eliminating that state’s premier vehicle safety inspection program.
H.B. 546 would repeal the requirement that all Louisiana motor vehicles obtain an inspection before a vehicle may be licensed.
ASA asks Louisiana repair shops to contact their state legislators in opposing H.B. 546. To send a letter to your representative, click here.
According to ASA, regular safety inspections by a qualified technician can identify and repair most safety issues arising from normal wear and tear on the vehicle.
“Study after study has shown the benefits of these regular motor vehicle inspection programs in relation to saving lives, preventing injuries and damage to property,” said Robert L. Redding Jr., lobbyist for ASA. “If enacted, HB 546 will eliminate a program that is specifically designed to protect the motoring public.”
H.B. 546 was referred to the House Committee on Transportation, Highways and Public Works. The committee has not scheduled a bill mark-up to date.
ASA opposes the elimination of state vehicle safety inspections and believes these programs prove to benefit the motoring public and small businesses.
Numerous states are considering the elimination of their vehicle safety inspection programs. In January, legislation was introduced in the Missouri House of Representatives that would repeal the requirement that all motor vehicles obtain an inspection before the vehicle may be licensed.
In response to the Missouri legislation, the Auto Care Association, ASA and Tire Industry Association wrote letters to Missouri lawmakers emphasizing the importance of vehicle safety inspections and provided information in support of maintaining these programs.
The aftermarket trade associations are longtime advocates of periodic motor vehicle safety inspection in states.
According to ASA, all the letters to Missouri lawmakers highlighted studies proving that vehicle safety inspection programs are helpful in preventing injury and death while enhancing the safety of the motoring public.
The average age of vehicles on the road today is nearly 12 years, and the largest growing segment of vehicles is 16 years and older. These aging vehicles need to be able to meet safety standards that can only come as a result of regular inspection and proper maintenance of the vehicle.
To learn more about the importance of periodic motor vehicle inspections, check out this newly released ASA webinar hosted by Tony Molla, vice president of industry relations, in a discussion with Tom Piippo, director of the Mechanical Division of ASA.
