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.
