The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced its decision to grant California a waiver from federal Clean Air Act preemption for its Heavy-Duty Vehicle and Engine "Omnibus" Low NOx Regulations, allowing California to enforce its own stricter emission standards. This decision also includes an authorization for parts of the regulations concerning off-road diesel engines. The EPA concluded that California's regulations are necessary due to the state's specific air quality needs and that they are at least as protective of public health as federal standards. Petitions to review this decision must be submitted by March 7, 2025.
Simple Explanation
The EPA is letting California make its own rules to keep the air cleaner by saying they can create tougher rules for big trucks and certain engines. California needs these special rules because they have a bigger problem with air pollution than other places.