Safety is Not For Sale Act
Summary
The "Safety is Not For Sale Act" aims to ensure that essential motor vehicle safety features are offered independently from convenience and luxury options. This bill mandates that manufacturers offer safety features either as standalone options or as standard equipment on vehicle trims. It also requires clear disclosure of the cost of these safety features to potential buyers.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely change how car manufacturers market and sell safety features. Consumers may have more choices and transparency regarding the cost of safety options. The FTC will be responsible for enforcement, and state attorneys general can also bring civil actions.
Potential Benefits
- Increased consumer choice in selecting safety features.
- Greater transparency in the pricing of safety features.
- Potential for enhanced vehicle safety standards as manufacturers may prioritize safety feature development.
- Empowerment of states to enforce compliance and protect their residents.
- Clearer distinction between safety and non-safety features in vehicle marketing.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased vehicle costs if manufacturers pass on the cost of offering safety features separately.
- Possible reduction in the availability of bundled convenience and safety packages, which some consumers may prefer.
- Increased complexity in the vehicle purchasing process due to more choices.
- Potential for manufacturers to market less-effective safety features to meet compliance requirements.
- Enforcement costs for the FTC and state attorneys general.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is primarily based on the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. By regulating the sale and lease of motor vehicles, the bill falls under this purview. The enforcement mechanisms, involving the FTC and state attorneys general, are consistent with the principle of federalism, allowing both federal and state entities to address violations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).