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California Air Resources Board,

I am writing to urge you to vote yes vote later this month on a
new rule to strengthen state air standards and reduce air
pollution from construction equipment (In-Use Off-Road Diesel
Vehicles).

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. 

Passing stronger air standards stands to benefit everyone by
reducing health care and hospital visits, by bringing the most
polluted areas of the state into 
attainment with federal air quality standards, by preventing NOx
and particulate air pollution from entering our air and by
preventing premature deaths due to poor air quality. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope I can count
on your yes vote for stronger air standards in California,

Regards,

Josh Michels