[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 110 (Monday, September 18, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S8652]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


     MOTOR VEHICLE AND MOTOR VEHICLE EQUIPMENT DEFECT NOTIFICATION 
                            IMPROVEMENT ACT

  Mr. GORTON. Madam President, I join Senator McCain today as an 
original cosponsor of the Motor Vehicle Equipment Defect Notification 
Improvement Act. This measure, aimed at increasing consumer 
protections, is a great first step in addressing current statutory 
shortfalls.
  The controversy surrounding the ongoing Ford/Firestone recall brought 
to light several deficiencies regarding the processes that are in place 
currently. A combination of increasing penalties, upgrading standards, 
and requiring more stringent disclosure should afford consumers the 
protections they deserve.
  Let me assure my colleagues that this is a work in progress. I look 
forward to receiving input from all interested parties as I work with 
Senator McCain to ensure that we learn from our mistakes and move 
forward to strengthen the safeguards that protect public safety.

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