Air pollution: small off-road engines.
The bill is poised to have a significant impact on California's air quality and public health by reducing emissions from one of the more overlooked sources of pollution. Currently, emissions from small off-road engines have been shown to be more harmful than those from light-duty passenger vehicles. The passage of AB 1346 reflects California's commitment to achieving environmental goals, particularly following the Governor's Executive Order that aims for 100% zero emissions from off-road equipment by 2035. The legislation also emphasizes the need for funding programs to assist with the transition to zero-emission small off-road equipment.
Assembly Bill No. 1346, known as the Small Off-Road Engines Regulation Bill, seeks to tackle significant air pollution issues created by emissions from small off-road engines, primarily found in lawn and garden equipment. These engines are responsible for considerable amounts of air pollutants, including nitrogen oxides (NOx) and reactive organic gases (ROG), which contribute to the formation of ozone and particulate matter. The bill mandates the California State Air Resources Board to adopt technology-feasible regulations by July 2022 to prohibit engine exhaust and evaporative emissions from new small off-road engines manufactured after January 1, 2024. This legislation aligns with federal laws concerning air quality standards and public health protection.
The sentiment surrounding AB 1346 appears positive from environmental advocates and health proponents who view this measure as a necessary and overdue step toward cleaner air and better health outcomes. However, there may be concerns from stakeholders in industries relying on traditional small off-road engines, suggesting that implementation challenges and the transition to zero-emission alternatives may require adequate planning and support to avoid economic disruptions.
The notable contentions regarding the bill address the balance between stringent environmental regulations and industry capabilities to adopt new technologies. While there is a clear need to phase out harmful emissions, the feasibility of immediate compliance and the impact on businesses that use small off-road engines for various services raise important discussions. Stakeholders are expected to engage in the conversation about how best to support both public health initiatives and the economic realities of affected industries.