EPA Targets Progress of Auto Emissions Testing
From Times Wire Services
The Environmental Protection Agency is investigating whether the state misrepresented the progress of its auto emissions testing program and allowed polluting vehicles to remain on the road.
Since the state adjusted its testing software in 2001, 4% to 5% of cars and light trucks tested have failed -- well below the expected failure rate of 10% to 15%.
According to documents obtained by the Boston Globe, the test is not accurately measuring nitrogen oxides, which contribute to air pollution. The software was adjusted after a study suggested that more than half the cars meeting federal standards were failing the state test.
