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Being a company that has a fleet of 140 trucks and has been
compliant with ARB regulations from the beginning, it is very
disappointing to see a bevy of carve-outs, exceptions and
extensions for those who were never compliant and had no intention
of ever becoming compliant. Those operators have tried public
pressure, legislative manipulation, false reporting, and good
old-fashioned whining to try and put a hold on the Truck and Bus
Regulation. There is no doubt that the regulation was forced down
the throat of industry with little foresight and little
understanding of the real issues that California trucker’s
experience. But once the legislation was in place and passed
initial court challenges, it became the law of the land, and flawed
as it may be, truckers had the choice to either follow the rules or
take their chances on some sort of 11th hour reprieve.
Now, the irresponsible may be getting their way. And those who
stayed compliant throughout, even though it meant losing business
because of their increased expenses, are slapped in the face.  The
biggest problem with the proposed modifications, besides the unfair
playing field it creates, are the extensions to report or apply.
Those who completely ignored the law now have another chance to
follow the rules on a schedule more favorable to them than to their
compliant competitors. In some ways, though, it is not surprising
that flawed legislation is modified with flawed amendments. 
 There is also the possibility that the state could be sued for
unfair business practices, by creating this uneven playing field.
Compliant carriers have millions invested, so they will have to
carefully consider their options. If they were to unite and bring
legal action, you can bet it would be a pretty strong case.   
Philosophically, the only amendments this board should consider are
those that help carriers who have already taken the early and
painful steps to become compliant.  Those who missed the train are
still at the station – don’t turn the train around now.