The Tire Retread Information Bureau (TRIB)failed to convince the California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB) that retreaders should be exempted from the requirements of its new Waste Tire Manifest program.
The new California used tire hauling law may subject retreaders to fines of up to $25,000 for "offenses" as minor as not filling out pickup and delivery manifests properly, according to Harvey Brodsky, TRIB's managing director.
TRIB argued that retreaders who haul used tires to plants for retreading should not be responsible for transportation paperwork since they, in fact, do not own the tires.
But that's not the end of it. Now that TRIB has been turned down, attorneys will try their hand at obtaining relief.
Brodsky said he has been advised that there is "a very good likelihood" the regulations can be changed through the legal system. But it will take time.
"Therefore, it would be a very good idea, in my opinion, to strictly abide by the requirements
of the new Waste Tire Manifest program, in order to not be confronted with a possible huge fine," he said in an e-mail to TRIB members.
The cost of the attorneys' fees is being borne by a California retreader and TRIB member who wishes to remain anonymous at this time, says Brodsky.
"However, he has requested that all other interested California retreaders should
consider helping to offset the fees. If you are a California retreader or a tread rubber manufacturer with dealers in California, please keep this in mind and please contact TRIB is you wish to have more information about how your company can contribute to help pay the attorneys' fees."
Ultimately, Brodksy says he would like to have California's used tire hauling policy overturned.
