Freight rail traffic in California could look very different in the coming years as state lawmakers tighten regulations on train emissions.
The California Air Resource Board passed rules requiring railroads to replace diesel trains. Freight locomotives built in 2035 or later will have to operate with zero emissions and idle time will be limited to 30 minutes with few exceptions. Rail companies will also have to register with the state board and report their activity, emissions, and idling data.
The Association of American Railroads say there is no clear path to zero emissions for locomotives, and the state Air Board has turned its back on the partnership with the industry.
