Since 2002, the PA Department of Environmental Protection’s Heavy-Duty Diesel Emissions Control Program has required heavy-duty highway diesel engines sold in the Commonwealth to have California Air Resources Board certification. However, on Nov. 8, 2021 the PA Department of Environmental Protection suspended enforcement of this requirement and announced that it is re-evaluating this suspension of enforcement no later than July 31, 2023. DEP will determine if the program is needed to assist the Commonwealth in attaining and maintaining the National Ambient Air Quality Standards in areas of this Commonwealth and the Ozone Transport Region.

If DEP were to reinstate the program and implement the CARB 2022 requirements, many individuals and businesses wishing to purchase a new heavy-duty diesel engine vehicle would go to a neighboring state that has not adopted California’s standards.

Senate Bill 1030 would address the issue of new California Air Resources Board 2022 Engine Requirements for diesel emissions and warranty periods in Pennsylvania. The legislation would amend the state’s Air Pollution Control Act of 1959 to end the CARB requirement and eliminate the unpredictability of what is to come in July 2023.

The bill passed the Senate 31-18 and is now being considered in the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee.