William Pryor: “I wish to make four points. First, I voice my opposition to the Allen amendment. NHTSA, in every study I have found…”

“I wish to make four points. First, I voice my opposition to the Allen amendment. NHTSA, in every study I have found, says the best way to reduce fatalities on the highways is for States to enact primary safety belt laws. Secondly, this bill provides an incentive, not a penalty. That is something we need to remember and understand. This is maybe a departure from past policies, but the bill, as currently written, provides incentives, not penalties. Third, years ago, the Department of Transportation set an attainment goal of 90 percent. This amendment would move us back to 85 percent. We are moving backward instead of moving toward our goal; we are backing off of the goal. Fourth, it is not so much about equity or fairness, but it is about saving lives. When you look at the safety groups and listen to the studies and look at the statistics--whatever measure you want to make-- this is about saving lives and States having primary safety belt laws. I thank the chair. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under the previous order, all time under rule XII is yielded back. The question is on agreeing to amendment No. 611 proposed by the Senator from Virginia, Mr. Allen.”