Senator proposes stopping NHTSA employees from joining automakers

Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., announced today, legislation to close the “˜revolving door” between the NHTSA and automakers. The bill would bar NHTSA employees from accepting offers to work for automakers for at least three years after their employment with the NHTSA ends.

“I am deeply concerned about the all-too-cozy relationship between former NHTSA officials and the auto industry. My legislation would address this ‘revolving door’ by preventing automakers from having undue influence on agency decisions,” Boxer said.

The issue of the “˜revolving door” has been a hot-button one after the recent Toyota safety-recall situation. Toyota had two former NHTSA officials employed in their Washington office, and Boxer, as well as other legislators, have all voiced their concern over those individuals using their influence at the agency in an unfair and unjust manner.

Individuals and manufacturers alike who stand in violation of the law will be subject to civil penalties, which will include a fine of $55,000 for the individual and $100,000 or more for the manufacturer.

– By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Detroit News