Provides criminal penalties for the manufacture, importation, sale, and installation of counterfeit air bags. (gov sig)
Impact
The bill significantly impacts state laws governing vehicle safety by establishing clear definitions of counterfeit and nonfunctional air bags, as well as introducing stringent penalties for violations. Offenders can face fines ranging from $1,000 for minor infractions up to $10,000 for severe violations, such as those involving significant cumulative sales prices or serious bodily injury resulting from the use of counterfeit air bags. This creates a legal framework aimed at deterring fraudulent activities that jeopardize motorist safety.
Summary
Senate Bill 32 aims to address the issue of counterfeit and nonfunctional air bags installed in motor vehicles. It amends existing Louisiana law to prohibit the manufacture, importation, sale, and installation of counterfeit air bags and sets forth penalties for individuals and entities engaged in such activities. The legislation complements federal safety regulations by ensuring that only air bags meeting specified safety standards are utilized in vehicles, thereby aiming to enhance occupant safety and reduce risks associated with fraudulent practices.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 32 is notably supportive, as it addresses a critical safety concern for consumers and vehicle owners. Legislators and safety advocates have expressed approval for the bill, emphasizing that it will protect individuals from potential harm and financial loss associated with counterfeit air bags. The unanimous support reflected in the House voting history indicates broad consensus on the necessity of this legislation to safeguard public welfare.
Contention
While the legislation appears to enjoy widespread support, potential contention may arise from concerns about enforcement and compliance, particularly regarding how counterfeit parts are identified and penalized. Some stakeholders might question the capacity of enforcement agencies to adequately address these fraudulent activities, leading to discussions on how best to implement the bill's provisions effectively. Additionally, there might be apprehensions regarding the economic impact on legitimate air bag manufacturers and suppliers.
Requiring a person providing wrecker or towing service or agency to provide a certification of compliance to a purchaser upon the sale and transfer of an abandoned or towed vehicle, prohibiting the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale, offer for sale, installation or reinstallation of a counterfeit supplemental restraint system component or nonfunctional airbag and providing for criminal penalties for violation thereof and expanding permitted lighting equipment on vehicles to include all ground effect lighting.