YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – Yuma leaders and clean transportation and agriculture advocates unite to rally public support for the adoption of clean heavy truck standards that will put Yuma on the path to zero emissions from the transportation sector. We encourage your support.
Arizona State Senator Brian Fernandez of the 23rd District and Yuma City Council Member Carol Smith participated in the press conference.
The transportation sector's Clean Trucks tackles respiratory health issues and climate change.
This is intended to highlight the need for recent proposals by the Biden administration and the Environmental Protection Agency on heavy vehicle emissions standards.
These standards are scheduled to begin with the 2027 model year.
“As a native of Yuma, I have seen firsthand the impact diesel pollution has on our communities. Clean Truck Standards are not just an environmental mandate, they maintain the health and economic vitality of Yuma and Arizona. This is a crucial element in our ability to improve our daily lives, leading to meaningful improvements in our daily lives.”
Arizona State Senator Brian Fernandez
“Health issues related to air pollution, especially among children and the elderly, are a constant concern. This includes everything from exacerbating respiratory diseases such as asthma to serious cardiovascular problems. The introduction of these clean truck safety devices is critical to reducing these health risks. We hope EPA finalizes these rules by this March to ensure a healthier future for all residents. It is important to take the steps to decide.”
Yuma City Council Member Carol Smith
“Based on my experience at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma and as someone who comes from a family of farm workers, I have seen the environmental issues faced by both the military and agricultural communities. These new standards are simply It’s not a policy, it’s an important standard: It’s about protecting the health and well-being of all who call this region home, including those who serve and work on the land.”
Joanna Mendoza, Marine Corps veteran and board member of Arizona Vets Forward
“Our region thrives on agriculture, and trucks are a key component to getting our products to market. But we need clean air and a healthy environment to be the cornerstone of our agricultural economy. We need to make sure these trucks are cleaner and emit fewer pollutants.'' By adhering to these strict standards, we not only ensure the health of our environment, but also the thriving local economy. We are taking an important step towards achieving this goal. ”
Ethan Orr, Associate Director of ANR and Economic Development, University of Arizona
Speakers at the press conference noted that federal heavy truck standards have not been updated in more than 20 years.
Additionally, the truck standards apply only to on-road trucks and exclude off-road agricultural equipment.
You can read the press conference in this article.
