N.Y. Board Passes Tighter Emission Regulations

ALBANY, N.Y. --- Following California’s lead, the New York State Environmental Board recently passed tighter restrictions on automotive emissions. The regulations seek to force automakers to produce more fuel-efficient vehicles during the next decade, according to a report in the New York Times. The regulations, opposed by the auto industry, would take effect starting with 2009 models and require about a 30-percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions and other greenhouse gases by the 2016 models, the Times reported. Automakers, however, contend that the regulations threaten to limit availability of some vehicle models popular with consumers. Court challenges are expected.