RCRC, in coalition with local government partners, is sponsoring Senate Bill 496, authored by Senator Melissa Hurtado. This measure would provide more flexibility for local agencies implementing the Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) mandate by ensuring disaster service workers are able to effectively respond to emergency situations, creating an Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) Appeals Advisory Committee, and providing some much needed and common-sense reforms for compliance.
The ACF mandates a transition to Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) and requires adequate utility infrastructure for alternative fueling. However, the current ACF lacks clarity on exemption request evaluations and administrative reviews.
SB 496 would establish an Appeals Advisory Committee by which local agencies may request a review of exemption request denials. A formal appeals process would ensure transparency while protecting due process for those seeking further review.
Furthermore, SB 496 would update the emergency vehicle exemption, allowing those vehicles that respond to and support critical operations related to emergencies and disasters to continue to protect our communities. The measure would also modify the requirements of the daily usage exemption, removing barriers to compliance. Finally, this measure would avert the costly acquisition of ZEVs before it is possible to install the infrastructure that makes use of ZEVs possible.
RCRC requests that counties send letters of support to the Senate Environmental Quality Committee no later than Wednesday, March 26, at Noon. A template is available here.
Counties are highly encouraged to submit the letter through the legislative portal (see here). For assistance or additional information, please contact RCRC Senior Policy Advocate, Staci Heaton.