With several of the state's metro areas failing federal clear air standards, Texas lawmakers are dramatically increasing funding to a program that help drivers of older cars buy new, less polluting vehicles.
"A clean-air bill aimed at removing 50,000 polluting vehicles from state roadways by subsidizing more Texans to buy newer models won unanimous approval in the Texas Senate on Wednesday.
Senate Bill 12 by Sen. Kip Averitt, R-Waco, is part of an effort to bring the greater Houston and Dallas areas into compliance with the federal Clean Air Act.
The Senate's proposed state budget would back the effort with $440 million in emissions-reduction funding - a $170 million increase over the next two years."
"...A family of four with a $60,000 annual income or less could qualify for a $2,500 grant toward a new car or a $3,500 grant for a hybrid."
"Sen. Kirk Watson, D-Austin, added an amendment that would include purchases of late-model used cars, but the details are still to be worked out. The law also retains repair grants of $600 to help vehicles meet pollution standards."
FULL STORY: Senate approves clean-air proposal
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.
Driving Equity and Clean Air: California Invests in Greener School Transportation
California has awarded $500 million to fund 1,000 zero-emission school buses and chargers for educational agencies as part of its effort to reduce pollution, improve student health, and accelerate the transition to clean transportation.
Congress Moves to End Reconnecting Communities and Related Grants
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moved to rescind funding for the Neighborhood Equity and Access program, which funds highway removals, freeway caps, transit projects, pedestrian infrastructure, and more.
From Throughway to Public Space: Taking Back the American Street
How the Covid-19 pandemic taught us new ways to reclaim city streets from cars.
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