Consumer Federation of California

Bill Update:  On January 11th, 2012, the bill passed the Environmental Quality Committee 6 to 0, with 1 Abstention. The bill has been re-referred back to Senate Appropriations.

CFC Position: Support

The Consumer Federation of California (CFC) supports SB 901 (Steinberg) because it would make the Vehicle Retirement Program only available to the highest polluting vehicles registered in air basins that are out of attainment with federal air quality standards.

SB 901 (Steinberg) will help consumers, the auto industry, and the environment.

Under this bill, consumers with the highest polluting vehicles registered in eligible air basins would be eligible to receive up to $1,500 for retiring their vehicle. This program is not only well timed for consumers and auto sales, but it will also benefit the environment. 

High-polluting vehicles emit more than 50 percent of the vehicle pollution, being a significant contributor to the smog that exists in our cities.  SB 901 (Steinberg) will help reduce smog, stimulate auto sales, and provide critical assistance to consumers.

For these reasons, CFC supports this bill.