The bill H.48 aims to enhance air quality by prohibiting the installation of devices in motor vehicles that increase their ability to emit soot, smoke, or particulates. It introduces new legal language that specifically forbids retrofitting vehicles with such equipment and imposes civil penalties for violations, including fines of up to $500 for a first offense and between $500 and $1,000 for subsequent offenses. Additionally, the bill mandates that motor vehicles must be in good mechanical condition and properly equipped, with specific prohibitions against operating vehicles that have modified exhaust systems designed to increase emissions.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws to include provisions that hold individuals accountable for operating vehicles that emit excessive soot or smoke. It establishes penalties for those who purposefully release visible quantities of these emissions into the environment. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, signaling a commitment to reducing pollution from motor vehicles in Vermont.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-567, 23-1221