Oregon to temporarily delay zero-emission trucks rules

Oregon environmental regulators have approved rules that will temporarily delay the state’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions from medium- and heavy-duty trucks, which are typically used for commercial purposes and for long-haul transportation. But trucking advocates are calling for a longer delay of the rules, saying the technology for these types of zero-emissions vehicles as well as the infrastructure needed to charge them are not widely available yet for the state.

Last week, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s commission adopted temporary Clean Truck Rules that will go into effect in January. The rules are set to be updated to align with California’s vehicle and truck emission standards. Oregon is one of 10 states that have opted to adopt California’s standards for these vehicles and must be aligned with California’s standards.