State Rep. Ann Kelley, R-Lamar, is pushing a slate of bills that would eliminate most vehicle safety inspections statewide.
She laid out her case during a Senate committee hearing this week.
“Eliminating vehicle regulatory inspections is a way we can reduce unnecessary burdens on citizens, like the other 38 states that have already done so,” said Kelley. “Studies have shown that mandatory inspections do not significantly correlate with a decrease in accidents or fatalities.”
Kelley said with the other states that have ended them, that research shows little link to fewer crashes.
“Also, with advancements of automotive technology, many newer vehicles are equipped with built-in diagnostics that alert owners to maintenance issues, making inspections less relevant.”
Kelley explained the proposals.
“These bills will remove regulatory inspection requirements for all vehicles except commercial vehicles, prior salvage vehicles, and vehicles subject to 307.380 RSMO, which is if it’s been in an accident or whatever, then they still have to be inspected,” said Kelley.
Under current law, Missouri requires inspections once a vehicle hits 10 years or 150,000 miles.
With no witnesses appearing in opposition at the hearing, the package now awaits a state Senate Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee vote.
For more information about House Bill 1838, click here.
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