EPA proposes rolling back heavy-duty truck emissions rules

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Thursday proposed rolling back emission standards for new heavy-duty trucks, including buses, garbage trucks and semis. The proposal would shorten mandatory warranties for emissions-control systems from 10 years to 5, delay requirements for the 'useful life' of emissions systems, and eliminate mandatory power and speed reductions when pollution-control systems malfunction. The underlying model-year 2027 tailpipe standards for nitrogen oxides (NOx) would remain in place. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the changes could lower costs for consumers and the trucking industry, estimating savings of up to $12 billion. The proposal is part of the Trump administration's efforts to unwind Biden-era pollution regulations. Environmental groups criticized the move, saying it would increase pollution and harm public health. The EPA estimates NOx emissions could increase by 4.2% in 2030 and 11.6% by 2055. The agency is accepting public comment until August 29.