Bill > S03828

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations to prevent tampering with vehicle emission control systems, specifically targeting diesel-powered heavy-duty vehicles. The legislation prohibits individuals from removing, disabling, or interfering with emission control devices, and bans the sale, possession, and installation of "aftermarket defeat devices" - parts designed to bypass or render inoperative emissions control systems. The bill is motivated by environmental protection concerns, noting that over half a million heavy-duty vehicles in the United States have disabled emission controls, resulting in significant excess emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. Under the new law, violations will result in civil penalties ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for first-time offenders and $2,000 to $10,000 for subsequent violations. The bill also requires the state departments of environmental conservation, motor vehicles, and transportation to modify vehicle inspection programs to include visual checks for aftermarket defeat devices, with vehicle owners required to remove such devices within ten business days of detection and provide proof of removal. Enforcement authority is granted to state and local agencies, with collected fines deposited into the environmental protection fund. The legislation aims to protect public health and support New York's greenhouse gas reduction targets by ensuring vehicle emissions systems remain intact and functional.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3828