Proposed Bill Would Bring Car Inspections Back To Georgia
Currently in Georgia cars are only subject to emissions in the core 13 countries of metro Atlanta. However, a recently proposed bill that was introduced into the state legislature recently could change that. Among the changes, they would bring back annual safety inspections that use to be required on all Georgia cars.
HB820, as it is officially known, was proposed by Alan Powell. While the bills text ultimately reads more like a series of legal codes, there are a few key components that car enthusiasts we should aware of.
- The bill would remove the $25 cap on the price of emissions tests. This means for the core 13 counties the price would be set by the open market
- Require annual safety inspections of vehicles.
The bill is intended to address what many consider an increasing issue: people operating poorly maintained or unsafe vehicles on Georgia roads. In general there seems to be a consensus amongst advocates and lawmakers around a number of issues: emissions, safety, speeding, illegal stunt operations and racing. While much of it is being handled through existing laws by law enforcement, it’s clear there is a sense that new rules are necessary.
Interestingly enough while it’s possible this bill will pass, it’s still very early in the process. Powell himself says he isn’t even sure the inspections should be required. Also, there is likely to be blow back if the bill gets closer to reality not just from car enthusiasts, but those who feel it adds an additional financial burden on Georgia residents.
ShiftAtlanta will continue to keep an eye on the progress of HB820. We will be particularly interested to see if additional details come to light about what will be involved in the “safety” inspections. We would be very interested to see if the safety inspections begin to target enthusiasts or other modifications.
Official Overview Text of HB820
A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Code Section 12-9-46 of the O.C.G.A., relating to powers and duties of Board of Natural Resources, designation of commissioner or director as board’s agent, and power and duties of director, so as to repeal a minimum and maximum allowable fee for motor vehicle emissions inspections; to amend Article 3 of Chapter 8 of Title 40 of the O.C.G.A., relating to inspections by officers of Department of Public Safety, so as to repeal such article; to require vehicle equipment inspections; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
Official Summary Of The Bill
Powell represents Hartwell, near the Georgia/SC border, though the law if it passes would likely impact the entire state.
