In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around the implications of the California Air Resources Board's (CARB) harbor craft regulations, which aim to address air quality and public health concerns linked to emissions from harbor crafts. Theresa Buie from Pacific Environment highlighted the significant health risks posed by harbor craft emissions, noting that they rank among the top three cancer-causing pollutants at ports. She expressed support for CARB's existing regulations, emphasizing that the proposed bill, AB 1122, could impose unnecessary costs on operators by mandating a bypass safety system for diesel particulate filters (DPFs).

Buie pointed out that CARB has already conducted extensive testing on DPFs without any documented safety issues and that vessel operators have the option to transition directly to zero-emission technologies, bypassing the need for DPFs altogether. She urged lawmakers to vote against AB 1122, arguing that existing CARB processes adequately address safety and compliance concerns.

Will Barrett from the American Lung Association echoed Buie's sentiments, stressing the importance of the harbor craft rule in meeting federal ozone standards and protecting public health. He warned that amendments to the regulation could jeopardize its effectiveness and urged the committee to maintain the integrity of the current regulations.

The meeting also featured public comments, with representatives from various organizations expressing both support and opposition to the proposed bill. Supporters included Crowley Maritime and the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association, while environmental groups such as the Sierra Club and Earthjustice voiced their opposition, citing concerns over air quality and public health.

As the committee deliberates, the outcome of this discussion could have significant implications for California's air quality regulations and the future of harbor craft operations in the state.