The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is developing a regulatory concept to ensure non-gasoline powered vehicles weighing more than 14,000-pounds have properly functioning emissions control systems.
While only a regulatory concept right now, RVIA stated the intention is to eventually become a regulation that would establish a smog check program for heavy-duty diesels. The new requirements being considered by CARB could have “huge implications” on diesel motorhome owners.
“The RV Industry Association and our coalition partners will continue to work with CARB staff to develop appropriate provisions that will protect the public without being overly burdensome on motorhomes,” RVIA stated.
The developing rulemaking is mandated by 2019’s Senate Bill 210, which will require diesel motorhomes owners nationwide to obtain an annual CARB certificate of conformity in order to operate their vehicles on California roads.
The rule would apply to all motorhomes operated in California. RVIA stated even motorhomes registered in states such as Virginia or Vermont that travel into California on vacation are included in the ruling. RVIA stated this is despite the fact the new law is clear that motorhomes are not the intended subject to be regulated.
Along with the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC) and the CampCalNOW RV Park and Campground Alliance, RVIA stated it has sent comments to CARB on the potentially negative impact this proposal could have on RV owners and RV parks and campgrounds.
Many out-of-state owners would opt to vacation in other states if the regulation were in place against all diesel motorhomes, RVIA stated. The proposal’s portion, which allows a three-day exemption from the regulation, is also unworkable for the majority of motorhome owners who would be considering California vacations, RVIA noted. Few motorhome trips into California are for three days or fewer, the association stated.
A workshop on the proposed rule will occur later this month, RVIA stated. A full, regulatory proposal is not likely to be sent to the Board until near 2021’s end, with an anticipated effective date in 2023.
