#HB1693, relative to motor vehicle inspections KILLED 238 to 110 #nhhouse

HB 1693-FN, relative to motor vehicle inspections.  INEXPEDIENT TO LEGISLATE.

Rep. Lisa E Scontsas for Transportation:  The committee has once again exhaustively reviewed the issue of changing New Hampshire’s vehicle safety inspection program.  HB 1693 is dangerous public policy for New Hampshire.  It would increase the risks of accidents and injuries and decrease the safety of our public roadways.  Vehicles in our state fail their annual safety inspection at a rate of 20% or greater.  All of our neighboring states (Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, and New York) conduct annual vehicle safety inspections.  Due to our climate and road conditions, annual inspections are right for NH as well.  The most recent state study (PA) on the issue concluded that “nationally, vehicle safety inspection programs appear to be a significant factor in lowering fatal crashes.”  The committee heard testimony that the bill will double sticker costs, raise inspection costs, and undoubtedly raise vehicle repair costs.  We are all aware that preventative maintenance such as an annual inspection or a doctor’s physical save on long term costs.  We heard testimony that the bill could put NH in a status of non-compliance with our Clean Air Act State Implementation Plan and put at risk an estimated $300 million of federal highway funds.  There is very little public backlash against the current system.  The committee heard from no one in favor of the bill other than the prime sponsor, but a great deal of vocal opposition.  The NH inspection program is a free-market based system that works and benefits our citizens and public safety.  A majority of the committee, by a vote of 12-1, recommends to ITL this bill that will have a negative impact on public safety and our constituents.  Vote 12-1.