Oregon Legislators Consider Delay in Advanced Clean Truck Regulations
SALEM, Ore. — A significant legislative effort is underway in Oregon, with House Bill 3119 proposing to delay the implementation of the Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) regulations aimed at reducing emissions from large vehicles. Initially scheduled to take effect this year, the enforcement of these rules would be postponed until 2027 if the bill passes.
Proponents of the delay, including Rep. Shelly Bossard Davis, argue that the current technology for electric trucks is lacking. "EV trucks cost twice as much, haul 25% less, and can travel only half the distance," she stated. The ACT regulations require medium and heavy-duty vehicle manufacturers to progressively increase the sales of zero-emission vehicles, starting with a target that covers 7%-11% of vehicles sold this year.
Opponents, however, stress the urgent need for immediate action to address environmental and public health challenges linked to diesel emissions. Mary Peveto of Neighbors for Clean Air highlighted that "Ninety percent of Oregonians are at elevated risk of excess cancers due to the air we breathe," emphasizing the dangers posed by diesel pollution.
Supporters of the bill also cite a lack of charging infrastructure as a significant obstacle to the effective rollout of electric trucks, suggesting that the necessary support systems are not yet in place. Brent Morgan from Climate Solutions pointed out that even in 2035, the ACT would only mandate a small percentage of heavy-duty trucks to be zero-emission, allowing diesel options to remain available.
Over 60 individuals submitted public testimony regarding the bill, with lawmakers deciding to hold further discussions in a subsequent hearing to assess the diverse viewpoints.
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