This bill mandates the adoption of the California Low Emission/Zero Emission Vehicle (LEV/ZEV) standards in New Hampshire, aligning with section 177 of the federal Clean Air Act. The bill aims to provide consumer, public health, and environmental benefits by reducing emissions from motor vehicles, which are a significant source of air pollutants and greenhouse gases in the state. The adoption of these standards will also allow New Hampshire consumers to benefit from the extended emissions-specific warranty that comes with California standards and will enable local automotive dealers to stock ZEVs, which they are currently unable to do. The bill notes that while vehicles sold in New Hampshire currently meet California emissions standards due to federal and California standards harmonization through 2025, formal adoption is necessary for consumers to access certain benefits and for the state to benefit from reduced emissions after 2025 when the standards diverge.

The bill also includes an increase in the inspection sticker fee from $3.25 to $3.75, with the additional revenue being split between the motor vehicle air pollution abatement fund and the general fund. It appropriates funds for an additional environmentalist III position within the department of environmental services to implement the requirements of the new vehicle emissions standards. The bill stipulates that the commissioner of the department of environmental services shall adopt rules to implement the LEV/ZEV standards for new motor vehicles sold in New Hampshire with a model year of 2025 and later, and it establishes penalties for manufacturers who fail to meet these standards. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 266:2