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AIAM Supports Agreement on California Brake Pad Bill

ARLINGTON, Va.--The Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, Inc. (AIAM) supports passage of a bill by the California legislature to reduce copper dust from vehicle brake pads that can wash into urban watersheds. AIAM members worked closely with California lawmakers, industry organizations, municipal water agencies and environmental groups on SB 346 to find an approach to brake pad reformulation that protects the environment without compromising public safety.

“We thank Senator Kehoe for all that she has done to bring the various parties together on this bill.”

“We believe SB 346 provides a balanced approach to achieving California’s environmental goals while maintaining vehicle brake safety,�?? said Michael J. Stanton, president and CEO of AIAM.

“Brake dust�?? can contain copper and other materials and is created by friction when the brakes are applied. SB 346, authored by Senator Christine Kehoe (D-San Diego), sets limits on the amount of copper used in brake pads starting in 2021. By 2025 there will be a virtual ban of the mineral. Owners of vehicles designed with brake pads containing copper will have access to replacement parts for the life of their cars.

“The bill establishes a challenging goal that we and our suppliers are committed to meeting,�?? said Stanton. “We thank Senator Kehoe for all that she has done to bring the various parties together on this bill.�??

About AIAM – The Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, Inc. (AIAM) is a trade association representing 15 international motor vehicle manufacturers who account for 40 percent of all passenger cars and light trucks sold annually in the United States. AIAM provides members with information, analysis and advocacy on a wide variety of legislative and regulatory issues impacting the auto sector. The Association is dedicated to the promotion of free trade and to policies that enhance motor vehicle safety and the protection of the environment. For more information, visit our website at www.aiam.org.