Bill aims to eliminate state emissions tests, except in Meck County (QC News)
For many in North Carolina, the yearly inspection of a vehicle is a necessary evil, a part of living in North Carolina, but also a thorn in people’s sides.
Over the years, though, the state has sought to somewhat ease the pain. One of the inspections, an emissions test, is now only done in 20 counties, and in the spots that need it the most.
However, Senate Bill 341 would eliminate emissions inspections in all but one county, Mecklenburg. Senate Bill 341 would also make annual safety inspections every other year. If approved, it would be implemented statewide, but the emissions measure is meeting with some pushback from some environmental groups.
“Our air quality is at a critical point where we need to be not only looking at other transportation choices but making sure our vehicles are operating properly,” said Sustain Charlotte’s Meg Fencil.
She noted that, if emissions tests end in the metropolitan areas of the state, “we wouldn’t know how much of that (pollution and ozone level) is coming from our vehicles.”