Arizona Introduces Bill to Protect Restorers from Prosecution

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• H.B. 2480 changes current law to allow vehicles manufactured before 1981 the reasonable removal and reinstallation of a vehicle identification number (VIN) if the act is necessary for repair or restoration.
   
• H.B. 2480 acknowledges that restoration experts nationwide commonly rely on the practice of temporary VIN removal to achieve the highest level of top-quality finishes.
   
• H.B. 2480 allows enthusiasts to protect their right to thoroughly restore a vehicle into an award-winning condition without fear of being prosecuted for tampering with a VIN.
   
• H.B. 2480 endorses the fact that the current system allows all car restorers—including professional shops—to be unfairly targeted for using proper restoration techniques.
   
• H.B. 2480 recognizes that the collection and restoration of historic and classic cars is an important part of preserving the technological achievements and cultural heritage of the United States.
   

Overview: Arizona has introduced SAN-supported legislation (H.B. 2480) to allow full restoration of pre-1981 vehicles, including temporary removal of the vehicle identification number (VIN) when necessary. This bill changes existing law to allow for the removal and reinstallation of a VIN if the vehicle was manufactured before 1981 and if the removal and reinstallation is reasonably necessary for repair or restoration. Currently, enthusiasts who intentionally remove or alter a VIN, regardless of reason or vehicle model year, are guilty of a felony. The bill is scheduled to be heard in the House Transportation Committee on February 2^nd.