In the near future, we will be introducing legislation that ends Beaver County’s participation in the Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) program.

Initially, the (I/M) program was designed to reduce air pollution and promote environmental conservation within densely populated metropolitan regions. However, newer and more fuel-efficient vehicles have become the norm and our region’s population has declined. With that, the program’s policy ought to be reassessed to ensure constituents are only required to complete such testing that is actually necessary.

The current Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Program poses a recurring financial burden on the citizens of Beaver County that does not apply to constituents of many surrounding counties. It greatly affects low and fixed-income individuals, as well as small business owners. These individuals, and many others, are forced to face costs associated with inspection fees, potential repairs, and time off work as a result of the current antiquated policy. For example, the minimum waiver expenditure for an emissions inspection alone runs anywhere from $150-$450. As such, exempting Beaver County would give constituents who are struggling the financial relief they need.

While the current (I/M) program is federally mandated, our legislation, if passed, would petition the EPA to remove Beaver County from this federal requirement.
 
Please join us in co-sponsoring this legislation, offering financial relief to Beaver County residents affected by this antiquated program.