Vermont House Bill H0048

Vermont 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/25
• Refer: 1/21/25

Caption

An act relating to prohibiting the emission of excessive soot or smoke from certain motor vehicles

Impact

If enacted, H0048 will amend Title 10 of the Vermont Statutes Annotated regarding motor vehicle pollution. This change will hold vehicle owners accountable for ensuring their vehicles comply with pollution control measures. Any person found to remove, dismantle, or allow pollution control features to be inoperative could face penalties, including the suspension of vehicle registration until the issues are corrected. This legislation also seeks to impose a civil penalty for retrofitting vehicles to enhance smoke and soot emissions, with fines escalating for repeated violations.

Summary

House Bill H0048 aims to tackle the problem of excessive soot and smoke emissions from motor vehicles. Introduced to the Vermont General Assembly by Representatives Graning and Arsenault, the bill proposes a prohibition against installing equipment that enhances a vehicle's ability to emit these pollutants. It also mandates that motor vehicles must not emit excessive amounts of soot or smoke while operating on highways in the state. The bill modifies existing pollution control laws to tighten regulations surrounding vehicle emissions and maintain air quality standards.

Contention

Debate surrounding H0048 is expected to focus on the balance between environmental regulations and the rights of vehicle owners. Proponents argue that enhanced vehicle emissions standards are essential for protecting air quality and public health, especially in areas where air pollution is a concern. On the other hand, opponents may raise issues about the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of enforcing such regulations, particularly affecting consumers and small businesses involved in the automotive sector. There may also be concerns regarding the enforcement mechanisms for monitoring vehicle compliance with the new standards.