Comment Log Display

As you are no doubt aware, on May 24, 2007, the ARB is scheduled to
vote on a new rule to reduce air pollution from California's
construction equipment.  This is the first rule of its kind in the
nation, and it could not come at a better time.

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.

By voting for this new rule, you will help:

Prevent 4,000 premature deaths;

Provide health benefits and reduced health care and hospital
visits of $18 to $26 billion;

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; and

prevent, by 2020, 48 tons per day of NOx and 5 tons per day of
particulate air pollution from entering our air.

Please do the right thing for California and Californians, as well
as for the rest of the nation, and indeed, the entire world. 
Please vote for this landmark, groundbreaking legislation that
will strengthen California's leadership role in protecting the
environment.