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I am writing to express my support for stronger air standards for
California's construction equipment.  As is stands, construction
equipment is the second largest source of diesel pollution in the
state of California, accounting for 20% of particulate matter and
16% of smog-forming Nitrogen Oxides. These pollutants are two of
the biggest pollution hazards for public health in California and
throughout the country.

In fact, 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 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 adverse 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.  Not only are we talking about pollution
that affects the quality of life, but pollution that may end
someone's life.

This new rule will:
-- Prevent 4,000 premature deaths;
-- Result in health benefits and 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; and
-- By 2020, prevent 48 tons per day of NOx and 5 tons per day of
particulate air pollution from entering our air.

This sounds like the right move to make.  Please reduce pollution
from In-Use Off-Road Diesel Vehicles.