Bill Summary
The "Farm Equipment Safety Act" is proposed legislation aimed at amending the Clean Air Act to exempt nonroad engines and vehicles used in agriculture from existing emission standards. Specifically, the bill modifies Section 213 of the Clean Air Act to state that the emissions standards set forth in that section do not apply to nonroad engines and vehicles employed for agricultural purposes. The intent of this legislation is to alleviate regulatory burdens on farmers and agricultural operations, recognizing the unique role of agricultural machinery in food production.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how the proposed "Farm Equipment Safety Act," which exempts nonroad engines and vehicles used for agricultural purposes from Clean Air Act emission standards, could affect people:
1. **Environmental Impact**: The exemption could lead to increased emissions of pollutants from agricultural equipment, potentially worsening air quality in rural areas. This may have negative health effects on nearby communities, especially for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly, who may experience respiratory issues or other health problems related to poor air quality.
2. **Economic Implications for Farmers**: Farmers may benefit economically from this legislation, as they would not have to invest in costly modifications or new equipment that complies with emission standards. This could lower operational costs for agricultural producers, potentially leading to lower prices for consumers or increased profitability for farmers.
3. **Public Perception and Advocacy**: The exemption may ignite public debate regarding the balance between agricultural interests and environmental protections. Advocacy groups focused on air quality and public health might mobilize against the legislation, influencing public opinion and possibly leading to further legislative proposals aimed at regulating agricultural emissions in the future. This could create friction between agricultural stakeholders and environmental advocates.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 7849 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. R. 7849
To amend the Clean Air Act to exempt nonroad engines and vehicles that
are used for agricultural purposes from the emission standards of that
Act, and for other purposes.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
March 5, 2026
Mrs. Spartz introduced the following bill; which was referred to the
Committee on Energy and Commerce
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To amend the Clean Air Act to exempt nonroad engines and vehicles that
are used for agricultural purposes from the emission standards of that
Act, and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Farm Equipment Safety Act''.
SEC. 2. EXEMPTION OF NONROAD FARM ENGINES AND VEHICLES FROM CLEAN AIR
ACT EMISSION STANDARDS.
Section 213 of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7547) is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``(e) Exemption.--The standards under this section do not apply to
emissions from nonroad engines and nonroad vehicles that are used for
agricultural purposes.''.
<all>