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AIADA Reacts to New Air Bag Rule

18 November 1997

Auto Dealers Association Reacts to New Air Bag Rule

    WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- The following statement by Walter E.
Huizenga, president of the American International Automobile Dealers
Association (AIADA), was made today following the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA) announcement on the final rule on air bag
deactivations: "We strongly agree with NHTSA that the benefits of air bags far
outweigh the risks.  Everyone should always wear their safety belts and
children should always be safely secured in the back seat.  The final rule
announced today offers an option for those individuals who for specific
reasons may be considered at-risk.
    "It has been our main concern that NHTSA would permit broad-based air bag
deactivations upon request.  AIADA has worked hard to educate the Clinton
Administration about the negative, harmful effect widespread air bag
deactivations would have on the American public.  Today's rule won't force
automobile dealers into the air bag deactivation business.  On-off switches
are the best possible alternative, allowing those who meet the requirements an
option and ensuring subsequent vehicle owners won't unknowingly face the
risks of a deactivated air bag.
    "We urge the news media to help get the word out that NHTSA will not begin
processing on-off switch requests until December 18, and on-off switches will
not be available until at least January 19, 1998.  It is clear that auto
manufacturers and their suppliers will need time to develop specific solutions
and provide dealers with appropriate parts, service bulletins and training
based on each particular vehicle's design.
    "AIADA is sending each of our members a complete information package with
the details of the final rule and the requirements set forth by the government
to help them help their customers make an informed decision about air
bag deactivation."
    AIADA is the national trade association representing America's 10,000
businesses that sell and service international nameplate vehicles manufactured
in the U. S. and abroad.

SOURCE  American International Automobile Dealers Association