Patton Works to Extend E-Check Testing Deadline
State Rep. Tom Patton (R-Strongsville) recently worked to move the extension deadline for E-Check testing after residents received 10-day suspension letters by the BMV. In several cases, many of these individuals are living out-of-state for various reasons including school, military, and work.
Patton and his office diligently pushed to get in contact with both the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) and the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) in order to extend the compliance requirement.
“We had many residents who had no idea about the upcoming E-Check testing deadline that suddenly received these 10-day suspension letters,” said Patton. “With concerns rolling into our office, we quickly contacted the EPA and BMV to get this deadline extended until Sept. 30 – this will give our residents ample time to meet the E-Check testing requirements.”
The OEPA confirmed that those who received the 10-day suspension letters will be receiving a second letter notifying them of the Sept. 30 extension. Additionally, due to any other repair work that needs to be completed for vehicles, individuals can apply for another extension through the OEPA by no later than Sept. 30.
Patton has publically opposed the practice of E-Check. Most recently, he voted with the Ohio House to pass a resolution in ending the E-Check mandate back in June.
“I’ve been a staunch supporter of eliminating the E-Check program for the betterment of our taxpayers up here in Northeast Ohio,”
In 2009, when Ohioans still used to pay directly for E-Check, Patton also was responsible for eliminating this E-Check fee through legislation under House Bill 1 of the 128th General Assembly.
“Unfortunately, the people in our communities may have to be greatly burdened by E-Check, but they will not have to pay for this troublesome duty.”
For residents still looking to complete the E-Check testing requirements, visit www.ohioecheck.org to find the nearest testing location or call 1-800-CAR-TEST for further questions.