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Bill

Bill

S 3828

Enacts the "emission tampering act"

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pete Harckham and 2 co-sponsors

The Emission Tampering Act imposes strict penalties for altering vehicle emissions systems, protecting the environment and ensuring compliance from owners and manufacturers.

REFERRED TO ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 3828

Summary of Bill S 3828: Emission Tampering Act

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 3828, titled the "Emission Tampering Act," aims to address and mitigate the issue of tampering with vehicle emissions control systems. The legislation seeks to enhance environmental protection by establishing stricter regulations and penalties for individuals and entities that engage in practices that compromise vehicle emissions standards.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions designed to combat emission tampering:

  • Definition of Tampering: The bill clearly defines what constitutes tampering with emissions control systems, including alterations or modifications that reduce the effectiveness of emissions controls.

  • Penalties: It establishes a framework for penalties against violators, which may include fines, vehicle impoundment, and potential criminal charges for repeat offenders.

  • Enforcement Mechanisms: The bill outlines the roles of state and local authorities in enforcing these regulations, including the ability to conduct inspections and investigations into suspected tampering activities.

  • Public Awareness Campaign: It mandates the development of educational programs to inform the public about the environmental impacts of emissions tampering and the legal consequences of such actions.

  • Reporting Requirements: The bill requires manufacturers and dealers to report any known instances of tampering and to cooperate with investigations.

Affected Parties

The following groups will be directly impacted by the Emission Tampering Act:

  • Vehicle Owners: Individuals who modify their vehicles for performance or aesthetic reasons may face legal repercussions if such modifications violate emissions standards.

  • Automotive Manufacturers and Dealers: Companies involved in the sale and manufacture of vehicles will need to ensure compliance with the new regulations and may be held accountable for tampering incidents.

  • Environmental Agencies: State and local environmental agencies will have increased responsibilities for monitoring and enforcing emissions standards.

Procedural Timeline

The legislative journey of Bill S 3828 is as follows:

  • Introduced: January 30, 2025
  • Referred to Environmental Conservation: January 30, 2025
  • 1st Report Calendar: February 11, 2025
  • 2nd Report Calendar: February 12, 2025
  • Amended (3828A): February 24, 2025
  • Advanced to Third Reading: February 24, 2025
  • Passed Senate: April 22, 2025
  • Delivered to Assembly: April 22, 2025
  • Referred to Environmental Conservation: April 22, 2025

Related Legislation

Bill S 3828 is related to several prior legislative efforts, including:

  • S 6172 (prior-session)
  • S 1948 (prior-session)
  • A 2486 (companion bill)

Conclusion

The Emission Tampering Act represents a proactive approach to environmental protection by targeting practices that undermine vehicle emissions standards. By establishing clear definitions, penalties, and enforcement mechanisms, the bill aims to deter tampering and promote compliance among vehicle owners and manufacturers.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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