House Democrat hopes to move auto safety measure following August recess

Waxman hopes to move auto safety bill after August

WASHINGTON — A top lawmaker says the House will try to advance an overhaul of auto safety laws when Congress returns from its August recess.

The chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Democratic Rep. Henry Waxman of California, said Wednesday that he’s hopeful the House will consider upgrading auto safety laws in the aftermath of Toyota’s recall of more than 8.5 million vehicles.

The legislation would increase penalties against car companies, require automakers to meet new safety standards and empower the government to demand a recall.

Business groups and automakers have opposed portions of the bill that would add fees to new vehicles and bolster fines against the companies.