Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on June 13 signed House Bill 3297, eliminating annual vehicle inspections in the state.
Residents in the 17 most populous counties---mostly those surrounding major cities---will still have to get their gas-powered vehicle’s emissions tested annually. Diesel-powered vehicles and motorcycles are exempt.
The change goes into effect in 2025. Residents will still pay an annual inspection fee of $7.50, but they won’t have to get the vehicle looked at. New registrations will cost $16.75 per vehicle.
The Automotive Service Association (ASA) in May called on the Texas Senate to veto the bill, after it was passed by a House committee.
Research, including a study commissioned by the legislature in 2017, unequivocally demonstrated regular testing of a vehicle’s tires, brakes, windshield wipers, lights and beams, seat belts and other components plays a critical role in preventing injuries, deaths and loss of property, the ASA said.
“The Texas Senate has an opportunity to do the right thing for their constituents by not advancing this bill," said Bob Redding, ASA’s Washington, D.C., representative. "Texas has a successful vehicle inspection program that protects the motoring public. This private-public partnership program should not be eliminated. Instead, the legislature should heed its own study’s recommendations and consider adding additional inspection items to the program.”
