A proposal by the California Air Quality Control Board requiring railroads to purchase zero-emission trains is facing opposition from a Washington agricultural advocacy group. The group believes that the requirement is “entirely workable.”
In a recent development, CARB made a crucial decision last year by approving a new rule. This rule mandates the purchase of zero-emission trains and simultaneously enforces the early retirement of 25,000 diesel-powered trains. The rule effectively bars trains that are 23 years or older from operating within the state.
In a letter dated April 10, Washington Farm Bureau Federation President, Rosella Mosby, expressed her concerns to Michael S. Regan, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. She emphasized that if a single state is permitted to impose burdensome mandates on a national system, it would have far-reaching consequences throughout the supply chain, resulting in inefficiencies and increased costs.
The imposition of new mandates like this could have a negative impact on investments in railway infrastructure in Washington state, as highlighted in the letter. It is worth noting that the past two transportation revenue packages have allocated $200 million towards railway improvement projects.
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) and the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) have already filed a lawsuit against CARB.
According to AAR, the railway industry is actively addressing climate change by exploring innovative technologies like battery-electric and fuel-cell locomotives. These technologies have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and criteria pollutants. Despite significant investments and collaborative efforts by the industry, there is still a need for further research and development to identify a clear and viable path towards zero-emissions solutions.
According to Mosby’s letter, officials from CARB have already acknowledged that the costs of compliance would result in the closure of many short line railroads. If this were to happen, farmers and ranchers in Washington would be left with limited options that come at a higher cost and contribute to increased greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it is worth noting that most states, including Washington, do not have the necessary electric infrastructure to meet the current mandate.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) held a public hearing on CARB’s rule on March 20. Public comments on the rule can be submitted online until April 22.
