A better way

The findings of the commission studying vehicle inspections ("Report questions value of state vehicle inspections," news story, Dec. 18) verified an argument I consistently made as a member of the state House: The program is an expensive waste of taxpayer dollars that never achieves desired results.

During my time in office, I pushed for an inspection process very successfully used by Missouri and other states using vans capable of instantly measuring emissions. Located roadside at any desired location, the units can identify and produce instant photos of failing vehicles with license number, make, color and model of the vehicle. Only drivers of failing vehicles would be cited. No one else would lose time or be required to pay for unneeded inspections.

I had one of the vans set up in front of the Legislative Building where demonstrations were carried out for three days. House and Senate members were strongly urged to check it out. Very few showed interest. If the legislature had chosen to try it, it would have cost taxpayers almost nothing while saving millions of dollars. It would have accurately detected emission problems while eliminating the burdening of every vehicle owner.

J. Russell Capps

Raleigh