Comment Log Display

	Construction equipment is the second largest source of diesel
pollution in the state, accounting for 20% of particulate matter
(soot) and 16% of smog-forming Nitrogen Oxides (NOx). These
pollutants are two of the biggest pollution hazards for public
health in California and throughout the country.

	Exposure to smog can have serious effects on respiratory
health. Inflammation and irritation of the respiratory tract can
cause shortness of breath, throat irritation, chest pains and
coughing, and lead to asthma attacks, hospital admissions and
emergency room visits.

	Particulate air pollution or soot can be inhaled and reach deep
into the lungs. These tiny particulates can enter the
circulatory system and damage blood vessels. Particulate
pollution is associated with heart attacks, irregular heartbeat,
asthma attacks, reduced lung function and bronchitis.

	These health impacts result in tens of thousands of premature
deaths in the U.S. from heart and lung disease annually, as well
as hospital admissions, emergency room visits, absences from
school or work, and restricted activities related to asthma
attacks. Children are especially vulnerable because their lungs
are still developing.

	Reducing the diesel emissions from construction vehicles benefits
our society by: preventing premature deaths, reduced health care
and hospital visits of $18 to $26 billion, help bring the most
polluted areas of the state, the Los
Angeles/Long Beach air basin and the San Joaquin Valley, into
attainment with federal air quality standards.  By 2020, this
reduction could prevent 48 tons per day of NOx and 5 tons per day
of particulate air pollution from entering our air.

	As a taxpayer of California (30+ years), and someone who is
asthamatic and on oxygen therapy, I request that you adopt this
new rule to reduce air pollution, especially in the Los Angeles
area.