ASA pushes Vehicle Safety Inspection Programs on Capitol Hill

Automotive Service Association (ASA) leaders met recently with key members of Congress and congressional staff to discuss the importance of vehicle safety inspection programs.

Less than half the states in the United States have any type of periodic motor vehicle safety inspection program. Of the states that have programs, several only require vehicle inspection when the vehicle is sold or transferred.

With current economic conditions, independent repair technicians have recognized an increased number of neglected repairs. This impacts the safety of the vehicle owner and passengers, as well as other highway users. In addition, it hurts the long-term value of the vehicle.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not been involved in periodic motor vehicle safety inspection programs for many years. A Government Accountability Office report on “State Periodic Inspection Programs” stated NHTSA should provide states with research and information to help them initiate and improve state vehicle inspection programs. NHTSA has not done so.

With Congress set to review highway safety issues and transportation programs, ASA requested that Congress support federal incentives for states to establish periodic motor vehicle safety inspection programs or enhance current state programs.

A periodic motor vehicle safety inspection program would:

• Ensure the proper maintenance and safe use of older vehicles
  
• Provide for minimum inspection requirements of motor vehicles

While meeting with congressional members and their staff on Capitol Hill last week, ASA members asked that Congress require NHTSA to conduct a national study of state periodic motor vehicle safety inspection programs, similar to the studies conducted by the states of Pennsylvania and Missouri, and evaluate the impact these programs have on preventing injuries and the loss of life and property.

The Automotive Service Association is the largest not-for-profit trade association of its kind dedicated to and governed by independent automotive service and repair professionals. ASA serves an international membership base that includes numerous affiliate, state and chapter groups from both the mechanical and collision repair segments of the automotive service industry. ASA’s headquarters is in Bedford, Texas.

ASA advances professionalism and excellence in the automotive repair industry through education, representation and member services. For additional information about ASA, including past news releases, go to www.ASAshop.org, or visit ASA’s legislative website at www.TakingTheHill.com.