“We will also consider S.3135, the Cold Weather Diesel Reliability Act, sponsored by Senators Sullivan, Lummis, Curtis, and Murkowski. At an EPW meeting hearing in March, we heard firsthand the potential consequences when a vehicle's emission systems can limit or even shut down diesel engines or farm equipment. This event, known as a de-rate, can strand truck drivers in isolated, frigid environments or drastically impact their farm harvests. The Cold Weather Diesel Reliability Act authorizes manufacturers to override de-rates in diesel vehicles and farm equipment operating in targeted and cold weather environments. I want to thank Senator Sullivan for his leadership in working to address the unique needs of Alaska and other cold weather states.”

Speaker

Shelley Capito

Timestamp

21:27 – 22:15

Transcript

Senate Environment and Public Works (Sullivan): Business meeting to consider S.5045, to amend the Clean Air Act to modify the handling of air quality monitoring with respect to prescribed fires, S.3135, to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to authorize manufacturers of certain vehicles to suspend engine derate or shutdown functions in prolonged cold weather conditions, and S.5249, to amend the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to align the licensing of uranium enrichment facilities with other fuel cycle facilities under that Act, and 21 Committee resolutions to approve prospectuses from the General Services Administration.

Community

Alaska News

Captured at

September 16, 2026