BETHESDA, Md. (May 23, 2013) — The Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) is supporting the decision of the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (NYDEC) to delay enforcement of its June 1 implementation of 6 NYCCR Part 218-7.2 (c), adopted standards for new aftermarket catalytic converters.
The proposed standard would adopt California's Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations governing the sale and installation of new aftermarket catalytic converters. To meet CARB standards, new aftermarket converters must be tested and certified by CARB and issued an Executive Order (EO), which must be identified by a metal plate on the body of the converter for sale, the AAIA said.
In a letter addressed to AAIA dated May 21, J. Jared Snyder, NYDEC assistant commissioner for air resources climate change and energy, said the department has heard concerns about confusion over the rule's implementation and enforcement from manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers of new aftermarket catalytic converters.
In response to those concerns, he said the NYDEC has issued a separate advisory letter stating: "The DEC will not enforce the provisions…until after Jan. 1, 2014."
According to the AAIA, Mr. Snyder also said that, "to ensure a smooth transition, however, the department will focus on outreach, rather than enforcement, for the remainder of 2013."
The department has also agreed to adopt AAIA's recommendation to establish a workgroup that will address implementation issues. The trade association said it looks forward to working with the department.
For more information about the issue, visit the AAIA's website or call the trade group's government affairs at 301-654-6664.