Bill would increase early warning reporting on faulty cars

Rep. Matt Cartwright (D-Pa.) has introduced legislation to enhance car defect reporting requirements for automobile manufacturers.

Under Cartwright’s measure, vehicle manufacturers would have to automatically submit accident reports or other documents that first signify problems with their cars to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

{mosads}Cartwright introduced the bill in light of the GM Cobalt and Saturn Ion recalls over the last year.

“The recent GM Cobalt and Saturn Ion recalls related to an ignition switch defect the company knew about for at least ten years highlights the need for companies to provide more information about accidents involving fatalities to the NHTSA,” Cartwright said in a statement.

The documents provided to the NHTSA would subsequently be made public unless they qualify for exemptions under the Freedom of Information Act.

Another provision of Cartwright’s bill would require the NHTSA to revamp its online database to make it more user friendly. Additionally, the measure would require NHTSA to publicly post notices of all its inspections and investigations.

Cartwright introduced the bill on the House’s last day in session for the year. He would have to introduce it again next month for it to be considered in the 114th Congress.