Ortt, State Senate Republicans seek to delay Advanced Clean Truck regulations

Posted 15 October 2024 at 8:44 pm

Press Release, State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt

ALBANY – Members of the New York State Senate Republican Conference have penned a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul to raise concerns regarding the adoption and impending implementation of the Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) regulations by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

“The ACT regulations are the latest example of a mandate that was implemented without properly considering the impacts on small businesses, in addition to the lack of adequate infrastructure to meet the intended goals,” stated Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt. “We have heard from many concerned businesses, and are calling on Governor Hochul to delay the implementation and form a Task Force to hear from stakeholders on a more responsible, practical solution that will work for everyone.”

The plan, first adopted in 2021 is set to take effect in 2025, would be yet another burdensome mandate on businesses in New York that would contribute to, and further dismantle, the state’s already poor business climate.

Zero-emission truck technology is still in its infancy, and the majority of these trucks currently cost three to four times the average of a diesel-powered vehicle. These increased costs will be passed on to taxpayers and consumers throughout the state. In addition, the charging infrastructure needed to power this fleet is not currently available at this time.

The letter points to legislation (S.9910, sponsored by Senator Griffo) that would delay the implementation of ACT regulations, and also requests that a Task Force be formed to conduct a cost-benefit analysis and formulate a more responsible plan, in consultation with the industry, that will both reduce emissions and limit dramatic cost increases for businesses.

“Clean air is a vital resource that our conference has long fought for and believes in protecting. However, like with all facets of governance, we must be prudent about how we achieve those goals. While this regulation is admirable in its intentions, the practical matter is that New York is not currently in a position to adopt it in a manner which is feasible and affordable,” the letter reads.