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The American Lung Association of California is urging the California Air Resources Board to adopt the On-Road Truck Rule, which would cut toxic emissions from trucks, buses and other diesel-powered vehicles. The proposed rule is the air board’s largest undertaking to date in its effort to reduce harmful exposure to diesel pollution and will be considered at an October hearing.
Diesel trucks and buses are responsible for half of nitrogen oxide pollution and 40 percent of particle pollution in California.Trucking emissions are estimated to cause 1,500 premature deaths each year in addition to emergency room visits for respiratory illnesses, asthma attacks and other respiratory problems, adding significantly to healthcare costs.
