As the new home of ConnPIRG's environmental work, Environment Connecticut can be contacted regarding this article.
HARTFORD (AP) -- Connecticut
is moving closer toward adopting California's emissions standards for cars.
The House of Representatives
overwhelming passed a bill requiring Connecticut adopt the sunshine state's
regulations for cars, SUVs and light duty trucks by December 31st.
The new, tougher regulations
would begin with the 2008 model year. The bill also require automakers to sell
an increasing percentage of clean, advance-technology vehicles such as gas hybrids.
The bill already passed
in the Senate. It awaits Governor Rowland's signature. He is expected to sign
it into law.
Similar standards have already
been adopted in Massachusetts, New York, Vermont and New York.
Proponents say it is fitting
the bill passed on Earth Day. They say it will reduce toxic emissions and possibly
asthma rates.
