Senate says yes to tire registration

The U.S. Senate passed a long-term federal highway bill that includes mandatory tire registration and other tire-related rules advocated by the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA.)

The bill passed the Senate by a 65-34 vote, but likely won't be considered by the U.S. House of Representenatives until the Fall. The House instead passed a short-term fix to keep current highway infrastructure programs in place through Oct. 31, 2015. The Senate passed the short-term bill as well, and it will be sent to President Barack Obama for approval.

But this keeps the debate over tire registration alive, as the RMA says the Senate-approved bill includes these provisions:

• Minimum tire performance standards for fuel efficiency and wet traction.
• A requirement that tire sellers register tires at point of sale.
• A requirement that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) establish a web-based tire recall lookup tool based on the Tire Identification Number (TIN).

Tire dealers, tell us what you think by leaving a comment.

And for more background info, read:

It's a go: RMA supports new tire registration legislation

TIA opposes mandatory tire registration bill

SEMA: Improve technology for tire registration

Tire registration bill begins its journey

TIA and safety advocates unite to reform tire registration process