Judge, Hill Review EPA Decrees

Related Stories Timeline: The EPA announced it had fined diesel engine makers a record $185 million. (Oct. 19) Volvo says the EPA knew about the flaws in engine designs and test. (Nov. 23) Evidence begins to mount against the EPA. (Dec. 18) The EPA refutes engine makers' claims. (Dec. 23) Read the EPA's letter to Transport Topics (Dec. 23) A House panel probes the EPA's actions in diesel engine dispute. (Jan. 8) Both trucking and environmental groups are unhappy with the EPA decree. (Jan. 19) Editorials: The EPA and Accountability (Dec. 18) Good News, Not So Good News (Jan. 11) From ATA: ATA President Walter B. McCormick, Jr. sounds off on the settlement. (Note: To return to this story, click the "Back" button on your browser.)

No decisions are expected anytime soon from a federal judge who is reviewing the Environmental Protection Agency’s settlements with engine manufacturers on emissions testing. While that process is moving forward, a congressional investigation of the settlements is under way.

The House Commerce Committee is looking into how EPA handled the settlement of Clean Air Act violations with the six engine makers. Some of the companies said they told the agency about finding a way to defeat its emissions tests years before they were penalized for violating restrictions on nitrogen oxide emissions (1-11, p. 1).

The committee has sought documents on the matter from the agency but has not decided if hearings are necessary.

The consent decrees signed in October will not be official until approved by U.S. District Judge Henry H. Kennedy Jr. in Washington, D.C.

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