Global Automakers Testifies in Support of Maryland Counterfeit Airbag Bill

Maryland House Bill 885 will establish criminal penalties for knowingly selling or installing non-functional airbags in vehicles

WASHINGTON, March 6, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- At today's Maryland House Judiciary Committee hearing on counterfeit airbag legislation, the Association of Global Automakers (Global Automakers) urged the committee to pass House Bill 885, making it a criminal offense if an individual knowingly sells or installs a counterfeit airbag in a vehicle.

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"This is a public safety issue that auto manufacturers are taking very seriously," said Paul Scullion, Manager of Safety at Global Automakers. "This legislation is needed to make individuals think twice before they intentionally make, distribute, sell, install, misrepresent, or otherwise encourage the use of non-functional or counterfeit airbags."

Last fall, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a consumer alert after becoming aware of sales and installations of counterfeit airbags that posed a risk of serious injury to the public. Since then, the Association has worked closely with NHTSA and state legislatures to bring attention to this dangerous consumer issue.

"I view this issue as an important consumer protection concern for all Marylanders," said Maryland State Delegate Keiffer Mitchell Jr. "The rising prevalence of counterfeit airbags across the country requires action be taken now in the General Assembly to ensure Maryland's families are not exposed to inadequate protections in the event of a crash."

The Association worked closely with bill sponsor Delegate Keiffer Mitchell Jr.'s office to provide technical expertise on the issue during the drafting of the legislation. Global Automakers will continue to be proactive on this issue by working with other state legislatures to pass laws addressing counterfeit airbags. See our past statement on Maryland Bill 885 here.

The Association of Global Automakers represents international motor vehicle manufacturers, original equipment suppliers, and other automotive-related trade associations. We work with industry leaders, legislators, and regulators to create the kind of public policy that improves vehicle safety, encourages technological innovation, and protects our planet. Our goal is to foster a competitive environment in which more vehicles are designed and built to enhance Americans' quality of life. For more information, visit www.globalautomakers.org.

Contact: Annemarie Pender
202.650.5548 | [email protected]

SOURCE Global Automakers