Rokita Fights for Consumer Transparency: Leads Introduction of Bipartisan Auto Safety Legislation

Floor Speech

Last month, Rep. Todd Rokita (R-IN) introduced the Safety Through Informed Consumers Act (STICRS), legislation that is both bipartisan and bicameral. H.R. 2702 requires the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to integrate active safety technology into its crashworthiness rating system, but does not mandate automakers to adopt such technologies. This ensures consumers are informed about innovative safety features integrated in their vehicle before they purchase it.

"This is a win for consumers and manufacturers because it increases transparency without mandating it. The bill promotes innovation and the integration of safety technologies in new vehicles without forcing automakers to comply with heavy-handed federal regulations. Ultimately, this empowers consumers with more information about cars they are looking to buy, which will further foster competition in our free market economy," said Representative Todd Rokita.

A benefit to the bill is it also showcases new safety technologies that American innovators are developing to improve automobile safety. One of these manufacturing plants working on new safety technology is Delphi Automotive, an auto parts supplier with a facility in Kokomo, IN.

"Delphi Automotive applauds Rep. Rokita for championing common sense legislation to increase the use of life-saving active safety vehicle technology. When fully utilized, this technology can save over 10,000 lives per year and reduce vehicle collisions by nearly one-third. By expediting active safety technology into the marketplace, this legislation promotes continued development in the US of market-relevant safety solutions, with the Kokomo facility playing a leadership role," said Jeff Owens, Delphi's Chief Technology Officer.

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