In a surprise move, a federal judge has blocked New Hampshire's plan to eliminate mandatory annual vehicle inspections, just days before the policy was set to take effect. The state had announced that it would no longer require drivers to bring their cars in for an inspection starting January 31, citing cost savings and reduced hassle for residents. However, Gordon-Darby Holdings, a private company that currently holds the contract to operate New Hampshire's inspection system, has filed a lawsuit challenging the state's decision.
S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as required by the Clean Air Act. The EPA had previously asked the state for permission to end the inspections, but no decision has been issued.
As a result, the judge's order effectively keeps the system in place, meaning drivers will still need to bring their cars in for an annual checkup beyond the January 31 cutoff. Local lawmakers say they will not let a judge 'subvert the will of the people' and are working on a legislative response to satisfy the court. The company that operates the inspection program stands to lose millions of dollars if the program is eliminated, as it takes a cut from every vehicle inspection performed in the state.
The dispute highlights the complex relationship between federal regulations and state-level decision-making. The fate of New Hampshire's mandatory vehicle inspections remains uncertain, with the EPA still waiting on a response from the state. In the meantime, drivers will continue to face the requirement for annual inspections, at least until further notice.
This ruling highlights the tension between state-level decision-making and federal regulations. It also underscores the importance of considering the potential financial implications of policy changes on private companies that operate under contract with the state.
