Truckers Protest Proposed Air Quality Restrictions
December 3, 2008, Bakersfield KGET Channel 17
The California Air Resources Board is set to vote in about two weeks on a rule that would require bus and truck operators to replace or retrofit diesel engines with cleaner burning alternatives.
Representatives from local trucking companies are asking the air board to modify the proposed rule because of the tough economic times.
The truckers want the board to delay rolling out the regulations in full and allow exemptions for specific trucks with high mileage.
Driving Toward a Cleaner California (DTCC) is a coalition of truck owners, grocers, construction contractors.
The group will hold a news conference Wednesday showing the cost of brand new compliant trucks, that range from $130,000 to $150,000.
DTCC is asking the air board to revise the schedule by which trucking companies will have to comply with the stricter rules.
The also seek exemptions for certain vehicles.
