In an era where information - and disinformation - spreads faster than ever, it's crucial to check facts versus fiction. This harmful and cynical spreading of disinformation has been painfully evident in the discourse surrounding clean transportation regulations. As we reflect on the overwhelming spread of falsehoods that flooded the conversation at the DEEP Emissions Standards hearing, it's clear we must address these dangerous lies regarding the medium and heavy-duty vehicle emissions standards that are currently being considered.

Connecticut's air quality crisis is among the most alarming in the region, with car and truck emissions constituting nearly 40% of greenhouse gas emissions. This dire situation endangers public health, exacerbates environmental inequality, and jeopardizes the stability of our climate. In response to these challenges, the CT League of Conservation Voters staunchly supports swift adoption of the stronger standards to meet our needs.

The transportation programs currently being considered have the potential to slash annual greenhouse gas emissions by 1.48 million metric tons by 2040. However, time is of the essence: these regulations must be adopted by the end of the year to reach this goal.

These standards also address environmental justice concerns that disproportionately impact low- and moderate-income communities, which are historically located near transportation corridors, such as I-95. Diesel exhaust, a recognized carcinogen, contributes to grave health issues including lung cancer, heart disease, and asthma. These frontline communities face the brunt of transportation-related air pollution.

Transitioning to zero-emission medium and heavy-duty vehicles promises not only cleaner air, but also reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Connecticut is now alongside Rhode Island, Maryland, New Jersey, and New Mexico in announcing its intention to adopt new standards. We need to join Massachusetts, New York, and Vermont to create a regionally unified approach.

To be clear, this program is not a ban on gas-powered vehicles. The programs gradually increase the percentage of new electric vehicle sales starting in 2027 through 2035 when 100% of all new vehicle sales in participating states will be electric. These increasing targets open up more choices for consumers when considering vehicle purchases.

Connecticut residents across the state — especially our younger citizens — are frustrated with our lack of action on climate. We join them, along with faith leaders, families, business owners, and other communities choking on tailpipe exhaust to demand policies that reflect the urgency of the situation and benefit generations to come.

Debunking oil industry misinformation is paramount. Contrary to claims that these clean transportation programs came as a surprise, the groundwork and planning for these regulations has been done over many years. The Connecticut legislature also held public hearings and passed a law in 2022 to adopt the stronger rules. There is plenty of time to implement these standards and no justification for further delay.

The technology needed to implement the stronger rules is well established and the global auto industry is moving in that direction. Electric vehicles are increasingly cost competitive and plans for expanding the infrastructure are underway with major federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021.

Our biggest obstacles in meeting this critical moment are lack of political will to see this through and the polluting fossil fuel industry, who will stop at nothing to profit at the expense of our health and the climate.

Ultimately, those who oppose this bill are not serving the needs of Connecticut residents, but are more interested in propping up the oil industry so that we continue to rely on their polluting product: gasoline.

We stand at a crossroads, and must focus on verifiable facts, overwhelming benefits, and the potential of cleaner transportation to contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.

Lori Brown is the Executive Director of the CT League of Conservation Voters.