North Carolina Senators Want to End Car Inspections

Getting a car inspected can be a hassle, and a legislative report criticized North Carolina’s annual vehicle safety program.

But law enforcement and a group representing drivers are opposing an effort at the General Assembly to eliminate the yearly requirement.

Fifteen senators have co-sponsored a bill would to do away with the safety inspection program. It would also take a close look at emissions testing performed in 48 largely Piedmont or urban counties to meet federal clean air regulations.

Chief bill sponsor Sen. Stan Bingham of Davidson County said there’s less need for inspection, particularly with newer cars, because they’re well-made and roads are better than they once were.

Mike Robertson, commissioner of the Division of Motor Vehicles, said the program helps reduce the number of accidents.