The California Air Resources Board has approved changes to its existing $28 million Voucher Incentive Program to make funding available to a larger variety of trucks
. The program, which is part of the Carl Moyer air quality program, is a diesel on-road voucher program that helps small independent truck owners get a cleaner-running truck.

According to the changes to the program, medium heavy-duty trucks with a gross vehicle weight of 19,501 pounds and above now qualify, while previously, only trucks with a declared vehicle weight over 60,000 pounds qualified.

Under the new program, trucks with mileage as low as 15,000 miles per year are now eligible. Previously, a truck had to operate a minimum of 30,000 miles per year or consume 4,700 gallons of diesel fuel per year during the previous two years.

CARB raised the maximum amount of voucher money that high-mileage trucks can receive from $35,000 to $45,000 with the changes.

In addition, trucks with 2002 and older engines may qualify for a newer truck. Previously, only trucks with 1993 and older engines were eligible.

The program now includes a new funding option of up to $10,000 per truck and exhaust retrofit.

"The board understands the need to expand our financial assistance programs and these changes give more small fleet and individual truck owners access to money to clean up their vehicles," said Mary D. Nichols, ARB chairman. "This will help a lot of small business owners comply with the law, and also ensure we continue the state's efforts to fight pollution from diesel trucks and clean up the air."

Participating truck dealerships can help business owners check eligibility and apply for a voucher. Grants are made on a first-come, first-served basis and qualifying applications are reviewed and approved within five business days.

For a list of participating dealerships and installers, click here.