Oregon Introduces Bill to Ban the Sale of Aftermarket Exhaust Systems
 

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A bill (H.B. 3214) to ban the sale of certain new motor vehicle exhaust systems or exhaust system components that cause motor vehicles to produce noise that exceeds noise limits has been introduced by Oregon State Representative Phil Barnhart (rep.philbarnhart@state.or.us). Under the bill, noise limits would be specified in rules adopted by the Environmental Quality Commission (DEQ). However, in 1991 the DEQ terminated its noise control program. The bill has not yet been assigned to a committee for consideration.

• H.B. 3214 would prohibit the sale of these exhaust systems in Oregon. The bill would also prohibit the sale of these systems by an Oregon-based business to an out-of-state customer.

• H.B. 3214 provides no clear standard to enforce, and refers to DEQ noise standards that are not currently in use. The bill could allow DEQ to resurrect its noise control program or create a new and unspecified standard.

• H.B. 3214 makes no accommodation for SEMA model legislation to allow vehicle hobbyists to buy and install aftermarket modified exhaust systems that meet a 95-decibel limit under a fair and predictable test (SAE J1169).

• H.B. 3214 ignores the fact that aftermarket exhaust systems are designed to make vehicles run more efficiently without increasing emissions.

• H.B. 3214 fails to recognize that aftermarket exhaust systems offer increased performance, which can make a vehicle safer by improving its ability to merge, pass, travel uphill, etc.

• H.B. 3214 would make it difficult for hobbyists to replace factory exhaust systems with more durable, better performing options.

DON’T DELAY! Please contact Oregon State Representative Phil Barnhart immediately by phone or e-mail to request that he withdraw H.B. 3214.

Please e-mail a copy of your letter to Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org. Also, please forward this Alert to your fellow car enthusiasts. Urge them to join the SAN and help defend the hobby! Thank you for your assistance.

Representative Phil Barnhart
rep.philbarnhart@state.or.us
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1411

The bill has been assigned to a committee! Please contact the House Transportation and Economic Development Committee and voice your opposition!

http://www.semasan.com/main/main.aspx?id=62922

Oregon Bill to Ban the Sale of Aftermarket Exhaust Systems Muffled

http://www.semasan.com/main/main.aspx?id=62933