Bill H.358, introduced by Representative Boutin, aims to modify the regulations surrounding the annual safety inspections of noncommercial motor vehicles in Vermont. The proposed changes include limiting the reasons a vehicle can fail an inspection to only those parts or systems that pose an imminent danger to the operator or other highway users. Additionally, if a vehicle has parts or systems that are not in good mechanical condition but do not pose such a danger, the inspection station is required to provide the vehicle owner with written documentation detailing the condition and recommended actions for repair. This documentation must be signed by the vehicle operator or owner and kept in the vehicle.

The bill also amends the existing law by removing certain language that previously allowed for broader failure criteria and introduces new provisions that emphasize the importance of notifying vehicle owners about safety-related conditions. The changes are designed to ensure that inspections focus on genuine safety concerns while also providing vehicle owners with information on how to address non-critical issues. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 23-1222