1. Identify at least one responsibility for motor vehicle safety carried out by each of the three levels of government (federal, state, local) through their various agencies.
- The federal government issues the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). These are regulations designed by Congress that control the design, construction, performance and durability of vehicles.
- The state governments are responsible for vehicle safety inspection and emissions inspection. These are carried out in each state individually, with 15 states having a periodic safety inspection program.
- Local law enforcement is often responsible for monitoring the correct adherence of drivers to these laws.
2. Give your opinion and prioritize the key public health activities for the 21st Century.
I believe that it is good that all levels of government participate in the regulation of motor vehicle safety through their various agencies. The collaboration of different levels of government means that the laws passed to protect drivers, bystanders and the environment are respected.
3. How would you begin to implement your top two priority items?
One of my priority items would be regular vehicle safety inspection in all 50 states of the country. In order to get this passed, I would have to address the state government. My other priority would be better awareness of the laws and of drivers' responsibilities. This would most likely take the form of campaigns sponsored by the local government.