The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has spoken out in opposition to a measure in California that would augment voluntary vehicle scrappage. The association opposes a California Air Resources Board (CARB) proposal to spend roughly $30 million annually for an Enhanced Fleet Modernization Program (EFMP), which would supplement the state's existing voluntary accelerated vehicle retirement program.

The proposal would provide incentives statewide for vehicles not currently eligible under the Consumer Assistance Program by removing the existing requirements that vehicles be subject to and fail smog check to participate, states SEMA, which adds that allowing vehicles that are not currently undergoing registration or that have passed their smog check to participate greatly expands the vehicle population that can be retired.

Drivers would receive $1,000 or $1,500 per vehicle if they meet low-income requirements. The proposal would also establish a pilot voucher program in the South Coast and San Joaquin Valley air basins that targets the highest-emitting vehicles and requires their replacement with newer, cleaner vehicles, SEMA adds.

Under the proposal, drivers would scrap their vehicles, receiving immediate compensation. Consumers would retire their vehicle at a participating dismantler, and a voucher would be issued for use at a dealership for another vehicle. CARB is proposing that the voucher compensation be $2,000 or $2,500 per vehicle depending on income level.

For more information, visit www.sema.org or http://eshist.bna.com/cgi-bin/eshstate?ca_19346p1.