Anti-Vehicle Safety Inspection Bill Dies In Missouri Senate

A bill that would have repealed a requirement that motor vehicles be inspected before being licensed has died in the Missouri legislature.

Missouri lawmakers ended their session on May 31 without giving final approval to state Rep. J. Eggleston’s House Bill 451.

The Automotive Service Association (ASA), along with the Auto Care Association and Tire Industry Association, opposed the legislation. The three organizations have been longtime advocates of periodic motor vehicle inspection programs to prevent injury and death while enhancing the safety of the motoring public.

The trade associations sent letters to Missouri lawmakers urging them to reject HB 451.

“Regular safety inspections by a qualified technician can identify and repair most safety issues arising from normal wear and tear on the vehicle,” said Robert Redding Jr., lobbyist for ASA.

If passed, this bill would have eliminated a program that is specifically designed to protect the motoring public. HB 451 did pass the Missouri House of Representatives but failed to make it to the Missouri Senate floor for a final vote.

While the bill did not become law this legislative session, it can be reintroduced in the next legislative session.

The Automotive Service Association thanks those independent repairers who took the time to communicate with their state legislators in opposition to the bill.

This article originally ran in Body Shop Business.

McCarthy Tire Service recently opened a new in-house commercial wheel refinishing facility. According to the company, the facility has the ability to refinish over 1,000 wheels per day and technicians will utilize equipment for inspection, surface preparation, pre-treatment, and automated coating techniques at the facility.

“We're thrilled to unveil this wheel refinishing facility,” John McCarthy Jr., president of McCarthy Tire Service said. “This investment reflects our dedication to providing our customers with unparalleled efficiency and a one-stop shop for all their commercial tire and wheel needs. By streamlining the refinishing process, we can help fleets minimize downtime and maximize productivity.”