The Tire Industry Association (TIA) passed a key resolution at its annual meeting in Las Vegas, Nev., during Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week.
One day before the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show was set to start, TIA adopted the following resolution:
"Whereas (NHTSA) published the expected Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for a Tire Fuel Efficiency Consumer Education as mandated by the passage into law of H.R. 6, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007; and
"Wheras, (TIA) submited a substantial proposal to NHTSA during the comment period, outlining our request to create the aforementioned program in full partnership with NHTSA; and
"Whereas, a significant component of the program is the creation of tire fuel efficiency standards with the tire manufacturers, which may involve lengthy negotiations even after the Final Rulemaking on Dec. 17, 2009; and
"Whereas, TIA would like to begin the tire maintenance segment of consumer education in 2010 and could incorporate tire fuel efficiency standards at the time they are finalized;
"Now, therefore let it be resolved by the Tire Industry Association meeting... in General Assembly, that the association will strive to be a significant partner of NHTSA, lobby for the tire maintenance segment to begin in 2010, and work with membership for Congressional support."
The resolution is an affirmation of "TIA's belief and dedication to the concept that our organization is the group most qualified to partner with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration... in the administration of the Consumer Education Program dedicated to Tire Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance," said Vice President Mike Berra Jr.
