PORTLAND (WGME) – Maine drivers could soon be forced to put certain tires on their vehicles.

It’s an expensive idea, that leaves Mainers without snow or all-season tires footing the bill for a new set.

The bill being proposed would require all Mainers to have snow or all-weather tires for more than half of the year.

Representative David McCrea from District 148 is presenting the bill.

It states that from the second day of October to the final day of April, all vehicles be equipped with a form of winter tires.

If passed, officials would then define what snow and all-weather tires are, and designate a way to identify that the tires meet all requirements.

Rep. McCrea released a statement on the bill.

“This bill is about safety. Having taught Drivers Education part time in Aroostook County for 45 years, I have always encouraged drivers to equip their vehicles with appropriate tires at all times. Certainly, most cars are equipped with either snow or all-weather tires during the winter months, but others push through Maine’s arduous winters using summer tires for a multitude of reasons. My bill aims to reduce hazards for all drivers who share the roads. One of my main purposes for introducing this bill is to ensure we have a conversation about this important issue. Should the bill move ahead, I will look to the Maine State Police, who already monitor studded tires from May to October, to direct us on how to ensure drivers adhere to the potential new rule. I look forward to hearing how citizens feel this bill will impact them and to working together to ensure safety for drivers across the state.”

(Sun Journal file photo)

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