It’s hard to imagine a worse decision than requiring new cars to be tested for emissions (“Wes Moore administration reverses course on Maryland vehicle emissions changes,” Feb. 21).
If the goal is to protect the environment, the new policy fails because it will require driving extra miles to pass a test for which the Motor Vehicle Administration says new cars have a “near perfect pass rate” .
If the goal is to avoid forcing the costs of the program onto lower-income Marylanders, new car owners would certainly rather pay the $10-$14 cost of emissions (and not be tested) than drive a average 20 to 40 miles (cost). not only $11.60 to $23.20 at $0.58 per mile according to the US Department of Energy, but also their valuable time) for an almost worthless test.
— Paul V. Konka, Phoenix
Add your voice: Respond to this piece or other Sun content by sending your own letter.
