New emissions regulations mean that heavy diesels such as trucks, buses and construction equipment coming off the line today are cleaner than ever. But many of the heavy diesels in New York don't meet such standards, and will spew out harmful toxins for decades to come if nothing is done.

Installing diesel particulate filters can reduce emissions by 90 percent in one of these machines. Many equipment owners and businesses want to clean up their aging diesels, but find it difficult in the current economic climate.

The state Legislature should create a dedicated fund to help pay for this. An investment in diesel emissions reductions is an investment in public health and our economy.

Joe Stelling
New York State Public Interest Research Group
Albany

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