Smog rules delayed for California

Source:Agencies Published: 2014-4-24 17:23:01

California air quality officials are considering easing the time limit for diesel trucks, one of the worst sources of air pollution, to comply with new rules.

The proposal would push back deadlines by a few years for small fleets, slightly used trucks and those in rural areas with cleaner air, and offer other adjustments to assist truck owners, said the Los Angeles Times.

The state Air Resources Board said even with the changes the state could still achieve 93 percent of pollution cuts envisioned through 2023. A vote is planned for Thursday, Associated Press reported.

AP said that the changes under consideration come in response to pressure from small trucking firms and owner-operators who have pleaded for more time to comply with rules requiring them to install costly new diesel particulate filters or upgrade to cleaner models.

"We're all struggling," said Allen Forsyth, who operates a three-truck fleet that hauls local freight near LAX, told the LA Times. "I used everything I had to buy a 2012 truck. But I'm absolutely broke now."

Those opposed to the changes, including the National Resources Defense Council, are urging the board to back away from the proposal to help preserve steps the state has taken to reduce pollution, while some in trucking say the cost of increasing regulations in the state is hurting them. Others in trucking want no delay, saying they have spent money getting ready for compliance, the truckinginfo.com reported.

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