CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A bill moving its way through the state Senate before next Wednesday’s crossover day would reduce the number of vehicle inspections and make certain used-car sales easier for the seller.
As it came to the Senate Transportation Committee, SB 543 eliminated all inspections for motor vehicles and motorcycles.
After several days of testimony from law enforcement and others expressing concerns about public safety, the committee amended it.
Now, the bill requires inspections every two years instead of annually. It raises the maximum fee from $14 to $28 and the windshield sticker price from $3 to $6.
The bill also allows used vehicles to be sold “as is” under specified conditions:
— It is inoperable or a total loss;
— It’s been custom built or modified for show;
— It sold for less than $2,500, has more than 100,000 miles on the odometer and is at least 7 years old.
The vehicle must come with an “as is” disclaimer saying all warranties are lost and the buyer is responsible for all repairs.
The bill has been read a first time on the Senate floor and is now before the Senate Finance Committee before second reading.