Environment DEC
From the December 2006 issue
Governor Signs Legislation to Reduce Harmful Emissions from Heavy-duty Diesel Vehicles
New Law Will Improve Air Quality
Governor George E. Pataki recently announced that he has signed legislation that will require the use of ultra low sulfur diesel fuel and emissions control technologies in heavy-duty diesel vehicles owned, operated or leased by the state. This new law will help to improve air quality and protect the health of New Yorkers.
Governor Pataki congratulates Congressman John Kuhl at the bill signing
The Governor was joined by Congressman John R. Kuhl, State Senator George H. Winner, and state and local business officials at the bill signing event, which was held at the headquarters of Corning Incorporated in Steuben County. The company is a leading manufacturer of particulate filters, which are critical components of emission control systems that reduce pollutants in diesel exhaust.
New York a National and Global Model
"New York has been a national leader in promoting cleaner air, and with this new law, we are taking another important step to protect public health and our environment by reducing the amount of harmful pollution from diesel vehicles," Governor Pataki said. "To achieve these reductions, we will partner with innovative New York companies like Corning Incorporated and others who are developing new and improved products and technologies that will control pollution. Thanks to the support of our dedicated state and federal representatives, and forward-thinking business and community leaders, New York State has implemented numerous programs that will not only improve our air quality, but also serve as a national and global model for what can and must be accomplished."
Last year, Congressman Kuhl helped to secure funding in the Federal Highway Bill for the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) program, which provides financial support to states to help improve air quality. This program will provide funding for up to 80 percent of the costs of implementing these tailpipe emissions controls such as diesel exhaust retrofits.
Law Requires Use of Cleaner Diesel Vehicles
Under this new law, on- and off-road heavy-duty diesel vehicles-those weighing 8,500 pounds or more-that are owned, operated, or leased by a state agency or public authority, will be required to be powered by ultra low sulfur diesel fuel. In addition, many of these vehicles also will be required to use the Best Available Retrofit Technology (BART) to reduce the emissions of pollutants. BART refers to equipment such as particulate filters, diesel oxidation catalysts, or other devices that can trap or filter particulate matter contained in diesel exhaust.
The use of ultra low sulfur fuel will be required once this new law becomes effective on February 12, 2007. BART will be phased-in beginning in 2008, and all vehicles subject to this provision will be required to use this technology by December 31, 2010.
