The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has set January 12 as a deadline for public comments after posting modifications and changes to its proposed regulation for new emission standards, fleet requirements and test procedures for engines.

CARB's website contains comments from 19 trade groups, manufacturers, forklift users and others. Most were filed during earlier rulemaking consideration in April and May.

CARB voted on May 25 to adopt the proposal for tougher emission standards and test procedures for off-road large spark ignition (LSI) engines powering forklifts, airport ground support equipment, sweepers/scrubbers, industrial tow tractors, generator sets and turf care equipment (Forkliftaction.com News #262).

Once inconsistencies or oversights are resolved, CARB will submit the LSI regulations to the California Office of Administrative Law for final adoption. The submission must occur by March 2 to remain within one year of CARB's original regulatory notice.