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Committee approves narrow exemption for bucket trucks, cell‑on‑wheels from clean‑fleet rule
Summary
AB 911 creates a narrow, targeted exemption from the Advanced Clean Fleet regulation for bucket trucks and cell-on-wheels used by telecommunications providers, arguing the vehicles are not yet available in zero‑emission configurations; the committee passed the bill to Appropriations amid opposition from environmental groups.
Assemblymember Carrillo said AB 911 provides a narrow exemption to CARB’s Advanced Clean Fleet (ACF) regulation for bucket trucks and cell‑on‑wheels operated by specified telecommunications providers, arguing those vehicles are critical to restoring communications during emergencies and that reliable zero‑emission alternatives are not yet commercially available.
Yolanda Benson of USTelecom and Terry McHale representing CAL FIRE and CHP unions said rapid deployment capability and high power requirements for these vehicles make current electric options impractical for many emergency uses. Opponents, including the Union of Concerned Scientists, CalSTART and Earthjustice, said the ACF regulation already contains exemptions and flexible pathways for emergency and reliability needs and warned that a permanent statutory carve-out could delay emissions reductions.
Committee members discussed the balance between public-safety needs and the state’s climate goals. Chair and members noted their intent to pursue more comprehensive oversight of the ZEV transition, but the committee ultimately passed AB 911 as amended to Appropriations.
