CARB Pushes for Smog Check Changes, Alleging Fraud in Current System
March 1, 2010 - Legislation under consideration by the California Legislature would permit the testing of on-board diagnostic systems (OBD) in place of tail pipe testing as part of the state's Smog Check Program. The measure is strongly supported by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which pointed to an audit that found 19 percent of vehicles that initially passed testing failed subsequent roadside testing. CARB's chief deputy executive officer Tom Cackette accused Smog Check stations of providing improper inspections and inadequate repairs.
California industry groups, along with AAIA, took issue with the board's characterization of the integrity of the vehicle service industry, stating that "the unfortunate comments made by CARB officials alleging 'widespread fraud' in California's Smog Check Program callously disregard the character and contributions of these employers and their employees to the health and well-being of California including their efforts to reduce pollution and improve the state's air quality."
The legislation under consideration would authorize the use of OBD testing; require vehicles identified as gross emitters to be tested only at the highest rated stations; impose more stringent fines for improper inspections; permit the state to contract with the private sector to manage franchise-like networks of independently-owned Smog Check stations; require annual evaluations using roadside testing; and encourage community colleges and other institutions to offer Smog Check technician-training programs.