VEHICLE EQUIPMENT TESTING: DEPARTMENT STANDARDS.

(a) The department shall prescribe standards for and approve testing facilities to:

(1) review test data submitted by a manufacturer to show compliance with a department standard; and

(2) test an item of vehicle equipment independently in connection with a proceeding to determine compliance with a department standard.

(b) The department may not impose a product certification or approval fee, including a fee for testing facility approval.

(c) The department may:

(1) by rule, require a manufacturer of an item of vehicle equipment sold in this state to submit adequate test data to show that the item complies with department standards;

(2) periodically require a manufacturer to submit revised test data to demonstrate continuing compliance;

(3) purchase an item of vehicle equipment at retail for the purpose of review and testing under Subsection (a); and

(4) enter into cooperative arrangements with other states and interstate agencies to reduce duplication of testing and to facilitate compliance with rules under Subsection (c)(1).