Panel advances bill to scrap oldest diesel trucks while environmental groups press for tighter electrification limits

Sponsors described SB 26‑21 as a pragmatic step to remove the most polluting heavy‑duty trucks from Colorado roads when electric options are not yet commercially available. Assistant Minority Leader Baron said the measure is voluntary and intended to accelerate turnover of the oldest trucks.

CDPHE and labor supporters framed the bill as an air‑quality measure: Steve McKinnon said targeting pre‑2009 trucks is one of the most cost‑effective ways to reduce ozone precursors and protect communities near freight corridors. "Removing these specific vehicles from the road is one of the most cost‑effective ways to reduce ozone precursors," McKinnon said.

Environmental advocates and clean‑transport groups urged clearer statutory priorities to ensure the Clean Fleet Enterprise continues to center electrification. Travis Madsen (SWEEP) and Earthjustice recommended amendments that would require new diesel trucks to be eligible only when comparable electric models are not commercially available, prioritize projects that deliver the greatest emissions reductions and cap the diesel‑replacement share (requests included lowering a 20% cap to 10%).

The committee, after a range of pro and amend testimony, voted to advance the bill to the Committee of the Whole (vote recorded 8‑3). Sponsors said the authorization automatically sunsets and the enterprise would still prioritize electrification for the majority of funds.