New Hampshire Halts Car Inspections Amid Federal Legal Showdown
New Hampshire drivers are waking up to a major change on the road and it’s one that has left mechanics, lawmakers and everyday motorists searching for answers.
The state’s vehicle inspection program is now suspended until further notice. That means inspection stations can no longer issue state inspection stickers and drivers are not required to get their annual inspection right now. The announcement came from the Attorney General’s office, led by John Formella , after weeks of legal back and forth.
Here’s how we got here. Last year, New Hampshire passed a budget that included a plan to end mandatory vehicle inspections. Supporters argued it would reduce costs and cut red tape. But the company that ran the inspection system, Gordon-Darby, sued the state in federal court. The argument was simple but serious. Ending inspections would also end emissions testing and that could violate the federal Clean Air Act.
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A federal judge stepped in and temporarily blocked the repeal. The state then extended inspection deadlines. But now there’s another twist. The Executive Council ended the contract with the vendor running the program. So even though the court order is in place, state officials say they do not have the legal authority or an approved contractor to operate inspections.
The result is a full suspension.
Drivers are caught in the middle. They no longer need a sticker, but they are still legally responsible for making sure their vehicles are safe to drive. State officials are reminding residents that safety requirements remain under existing law. The problem is, without a formal inspection system, many are asking how that responsibility will be enforced.
Mechanics say they have customers scheduled for inspections next week and now those appointments are canceled. Some say they have not received clear guidance. Legal experts point out that because the inspection program was tied to federal clean air requirements, this is no longer just a state issue. It’s a federal one.
New Hampshire has filed for a waiver from the Environmental Protection Agency and that decision is still pending. The state is also appealing the federal ruling. So this story is far from over.
For now, there are no stickers, no inspections and plenty of uncertainty.
This matters because it touches on road safety, environmental compliance and the balance of power between state and federal law. And it affects every driver in the Granite State.
We will continue to follow the legal battle and the next move from state officials. Stay with us for continuing coverage and in-depth analysis as this situation develops.
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