Bill to delay inspection for new vehicles sparks broad opposition from dealers, safety groups and state agencies

The House Transportation Committee heard more than three hours of testimony on HB 209, a bill that would allow a new vehicle purchased in the model year or earlier to be inspected in the second year after purchase rather than during the first year.

Representative Charlie Sinclair introduced the bill, saying his constituents favored the change to reduce unnecessary inspections for new vehicles that receive frequent dealer maintenance and are still under warranty. "This would allow new vehicles purchased to basically, after their first inspection, wait another year after to get an inspection sticker," Sinclair said.

Industry and public-safety witnesses urged the committee to reject the bill. Testimony from New Hampshire Auto Dealers Association (Dan Bennett), New Car Automall service manager Allison Brinson, New Hampshire Motor Transport Association (Bob Scully), the state police (Scott Atherton) and…