Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) State Grants

The Diesel Emissions Reduction Act, 42 U.S.C. 16131 et seq., as amended, authorizes EPA to award assistance agreements to states and territories to develop and implement such grant, rebates, and loan programs in the states and territories as are appropriate to meet state and territory needs and goals relating to the reduction of diesel emissions. In providing grants, rebates, and loans under this program, states must give priority to projects which: maximize public health benefits; are the most cost-effective; serve areas with the highest population density, that are poor air quality areas (including nonattainment or maintenance of national ambient air quality standards for a criteria pollutant; Federal Class I areas; or areas with air pollutant concerns); serve areas that receive a disproportionate quantity of air pollution from diesel fleets, including truck stops, ports, rail yards, terminals, construction sites, schools, and distribution centers or that use a community-based multi-stakeholder collaborative process to reduce emissions; will only include a certified engine configuration or verified technology that has a long expected useful life; maximize the useful life of any certified engine configuration or verified technology used or funded by the eligible entity; and conserve diesel fuel.