Oakland Truckers Say New Pollution Curbs Too Costly
OAKLAND (KCBS) - Independent truckers who drive older model big rigs worry that stricter emissions control requirements that take effect in 2012 could put them out of business.
Truck operators said the expensive filters the Port of Oakland required them to install in lieu of buying newer model rigs that typically cost $100,000 will wind up being obsolete under new standards.
"Millions of taxpayer dollars have already gone into retrofitting these trucks," said Kathy Fitzgerald, owner of Fitzgerald's Truck Sales.
Some drivers were eligible for subsidies to cover the cost of equipment that filters out exhaust when truck engines must idle for long periods waiting to load or unload.
KCBS' Bob Melrose Reports:
Fitzgerald was one of about 60 other independent drivers and small trucking company owners who testified Thursday at a special meeting of the Alameda County Board of Supervisors.
The truckers urged the supervisors to help them lobby the California Air Resources Board to delay implementing rules only large companies could afford.
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