Simplified contact with authorities for low-emission vehicles in Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Protection is seeking a legislative change to its low- and zero-emission vehicle programmes.

The federal Clean Air Act gives the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) primary authority to set emission standards for new motor vehicles. However, under the CAA, states have the option of enacting more stringent vehicle emission standards than the federal standards. Many states base their standards on the California regulations, which go beyond the requirements set at the federal level.

Rhode Island has so far adopted and enforced the California emissions standards, which are in effect until model year 2025. The change in the law does not affect the numerous environmental standards and requirements for business operators. Instead, it allows for simplified contact and submission of the required reports and information to the competent authority, which is the Office of Air Resources.