In safety and anti-pollution equipment, further providing for windshield obstructions and wipers.
Impact
The passage of HB 1142 would have significant implications for both consumers and businesses involved in vehicle modifications. Specifically, it would hold tint service providers accountable for failing to inform customers about the legal repercussions of their tint choices. By categorizing such misinformation as an unfair trade practice under the Consumer Protection Law, the bill would empower consumers to take legal action against service providers that do not comply with these new standards, thus reinforcing consumer rights in vehicle safety matters.
Summary
House Bill 1142 aims to amend the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes by enhancing the regulations surrounding windshield obstructions and wipers, particularly focusing on vehicles equipped with tinted windows. The bill introduces a mandate for a window tint meter to be included in the safety inspection process. If the window tint exceeds legal limits as outlined in existing regulations, the vehicle will violate the requirements and fail inspection. This provision seeks to ensure greater safety on the roads by preventing visibility issues caused by overly tinted windows.
Sentiment
Overall sentiment around HB 1142 appears cautious yet constructive. Supporters argue that the bill is essential for enhancing public safety and protecting consumers from potential deceit by service providers. They emphasize that ensuring compliance with safety regulations is necessary for the well-being of all road users. However, there might be some opposition from those in the vehicle modification industry, who could view increased regulations as a burden and argue that such measures may limit consumer choice and freedom in customizing their vehicles.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1142 include the balance between regulation and personal choice regarding vehicle modifications. While proponents support the need for safety measures, opponents may argue this bill adds unnecessary red tape that could hinder the vehicle modification business. The discussions may delve into the practicality of enforcement, the implications for small business operators, and the potential for conflicts with consumer preferences.
In equipment standards, further providing for unlawful activities; in other required equipment, further providing for restraint systems; and abrogating regulations.
In equipment standards, further providing for unlawful activities; in other required equipment, further providing for restraint systems; and abrogating regulations.
In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in financial responsibility, providing for utility terrain vehicles; in special vehicles and pedestrians, providing for operation of utility terrain vehicles; in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for off-road vehicles in urban municipalities; and imposing penalties.
In rules of the road in general, further providing for prohibiting use of hearing impairment devices and for additional parking regulations; in inspection of vehicles, further providing for inspection of motorcycles; and, in motorcycles, further providing for motorcycle safety education program.
In other required equipment, further providing for exhaust systems, mufflers and noise control; in inspection of vehicles, further providing for suspension of certificates of appointment; in snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles, further providing for mufflers and sound control; imposing penalties; and making editorial changes.