Etna, Calif. — California lawmakers took a key step this week toward reducing the regulatory burden on owners of heavy-duty diesel vehicles with Senate Bill 1064.
The bill, authored by Sen. Megan Dahle (R-Redding), would modify California’s Clean Truck Check program by allowing many low-use, agricultural, and specialty heavy-duty vehicles to undergo emissions testing every two years instead of more frequent intervals required under current rules.
Supporters say the measure would cut compliance costs and downtime for rural businesses, farmers, and small operators, particularly in Northern California, without weakening overall air quality standards.
On May 20, 2026, the Senate ordered SB 1064 to the Special Consent Calendar, signaling strong support and clearing a significant procedural hurdle. The bill previously passed out of key Senate committees with bipartisan backing.
“Many of these vehicles are driven far less than commercial trucks and don’t need the same level of frequent testing,” Dahle’s office stated earlier this year. The bill maintains testing requirements but scales them back to a more reasonable biennial schedule, similar to passenger vehicle smog checks.
If passed by the full Legislature and signed by the governor, the changes would take effect in upcoming compliance years for the Heavy-Duty Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Program administered by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
The legislation has drawn support from agricultural groups and trucking interests in rural districts, who argue the existing program creates unnecessary financial strain.
For full bill text and updates, visit the California Legislative Information website.
