AUTOMATED TESTS COULD EASE STATE IMPLEMENTATION OF I/M PROGRAMS

CHICAGO -- Oregon air officials are pursuing ways to conduct automated vehicle inspection/maintenance (I/M) programs that do not require inspectors, in a move that other states could use as a way to make these tests more politically viable and less expensive. Many states acknowledge that I/M programs are among the most effective ways to reduce air pollution to meet EPA's strict new 8-hour ozone standard. Yet the mandate is hugely unpopular with the public, and imposes resource burdens on states...