U.S. EPA Proposes Loophole for Dirty Diesel Trucks: Repeal Would Result in Preventable Deaths, Lung Cancer, Asthma Attacks

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a proposal to repeal emission requirements for older, refurbished heavy-duty diesel trucks, creating a loophole that will allow dangerous air pollution linked to premature death, lung cancer and asthma attacks. American Lung Association National President and CEO Harold P. Wimmer issued the following statement in response:

"EPA's proposal today prioritizes narrow industry special interests over the health of children, people with asthma and heart disease, and other vulnerable populations. By giving older, dirty heavy-duty trucks a license to pollute the air we all breathe with nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, this proposal will lead to asthma attacks, lung cancer and premature deaths that could have been avoided. This proposal would also increase carbon pollution that contributes to climate change, which is already impacting the health of Americans in large parts of the United States today.

"Repealing these emission requirements for dirty diesel trucks, known as glider vehicles, can emit 20 to 40 times the pollution compared to trucks that meet the current standards. According to prior EPA analysis, these dirty diesels sold in just one year could result in up to 1,600 premature deaths that could have been prevented.

"The American Lung Association will fight to save lives and support the health of Americans by stopping this dirty diesel truck loophole."