NCJ Number
116922
Date Published
1989
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This study examines certain activities and rulemaking action of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with special emphasis on three specific rulemaking subjects: rear seat lap/shoulder belts; side impact protection; and head restraints for light trucks, multipurpose passenger vehicles, and buses with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less.
Abstract
Rulemaking actions and chronologies for each of the three subject areas are outlined in detail. As of December 13, 1988, none of the three rulemaking actions had been completed, although each had been in process between 21 and 27 months. Reasons for the delays are explored. NHTSA reported that it takes approximately two years to move through the stages of rulemaking to a final rule. Rules are made by NHTSA either as a result of its research activities or in response to petitions from individual citizens, manufacturing, or consumer groups. The role played by the Office of Management and Budget in the review of agency rulemaking is also discussed.