CARB looking for input on voluntary vehicle retirement program

Those wishing to have their say about a new voluntary vehicle retirement program in California will have their chance.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has scheduled a workshop for May 23 to present and receive comments on the development of the Enhanced Fleet Modernization Program (EFMP), which  was authorized by Assembly Bill 118 and will be administered by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR).

Assembly Bill 118, sponsored by California Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez, was signed into law by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger last October. This legislation provides approximately $200 million annually through 2015 to fund three new air quality improvement projects – the Air Quality Improvement Program, the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program and the Enhanced Fleet Modernization Program. Additionally, such funds will be used to develop and employ technology as well as alternative and renewable fuels. Revenues for the programs are generated via increases to the smog abatement, vehicle registration and vessel registration fees.

The Automotive Service Association opposes vehicle retirement programs that do not include consumer repair options.

To view the text of California Assembly Bill 118, visit ASA’s legislative Web site, www.ASAshop.org. The bill can be found under the “Track Legislation” by clicking on “State Bills.”