Bill > SB1298

This bill makes changes to Pennsylvania's vehicle inspection laws, specifically concerning emissions testing. It introduces an exemption for newer vehicles, stating that vehicles will be exempt from emission inspections for five years after their manufacture, provided this doesn't jeopardize federal funding. The bill also directs the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to begin removing certain counties from the enhanced vehicle emission inspection and maintenance program, which is a system designed to reduce air pollution from vehicles. The DEP must submit a revised plan to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by August 1, 2026, demonstrating that these counties can meet air quality standards without the emissions program, and must comply with federal laws to avoid losing federal funding. The bill also clarifies that certain vehicles manufactured without a gas cap will not be required to undergo a gas cap test, and that the five most recent model year vehicles will still be subject to visual inspections for emissions control components during their annual safety inspection.