If passed, the county would become the first U.S. jurisdiction to impose such a law. Under the proposed law, violators – specifically “retrial tire dealers” – would be fined up to $500 for selling any passenger vehicle tire older than six years. The proposal does not address tires that might change hands in private transactions or those sold as part of a used vehicle, either by a vehicle dealer or in a private transaction.

It is also unclear if the proposed law would preclude the sale of “used tires” for the purpose of retreading or recycling.

The resolution was introduced on Oct. 14 and was tabled by county commissioners. It was amended and reintroduced on Nov. 21.

The resolution cites NHTSA studies on tire degradation and Ford Motor Co. dictate that tires older than six years should be removed from service. The law, if passed, would be enforced by the Suffolk County Office of Consumer Affairs, which would be empowered to develop and issue “such rules and regulations, as he or she deems necessary to implement and carry out the provisions of this law.” (Tire Review/Akron)