Texas Senate Bill SB617

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 3/20/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/2/09

Caption

Relating to requiring a retail seller of motor vehicle tires to render certain tires unusable; providing a civil penalty.

Impact

The implementation of SB617 would have significant implications for state laws governing retail tire sales. It establishes new requirements for businesses, potentially altering their inventory management and disposal practices concerning tires. These changes are expected to prevent the sale of unsafe tires, thus improving overall road safety and reducing accidents related to tire failures. Retail sellers must now ensure compliance with these new regulations, or face civil penalties for violations.

Summary

SB617 proposes a regulatory framework mandating retail sellers of motor vehicle tires to render certain tires unusable before selling them. This measure aims to enhance safety standards by ensuring that tires not meeting specific inspection criteria, as defined by the Department of Public Safety, are not sold to consumers. The bill outlines the specific methods by which tires must be rendered unusable, primarily by puncturing them in such a way that they cannot be repaired, thereby removing any potential risk they may pose if sold in a defective state.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB617 may arise regarding the enforcement of the new regulations and the associated civil penalties. Retail businesses may express concerns about the practical aspects of rendering tires unusable and the financial implications of complying with these requirements. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the potential burden placed on small tire retailers who may not have the resources to adapt to these new regulations as swiftly as larger businesses. As the bill moves through the legislative process, it may face scrutiny from various stakeholders, including environmental groups and consumer safety advocates.