Sen. Tom Carper led his colleagues in introducing bipartisan legislation that would reauthorize through fiscal 2024 the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act.

The program, administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, relies on federal grants and rebates. The funding is used to help finance the voluntary replacement or installation of retrofits on existing heavy-duty diesel vehicles and engines.

“DERA effectively uses American-made technology to reduce air pollution that harms our lungs and our climate — creating American jobs and a healthier environment. The program is so successful, every dollar invested in DERA generates a 13-fold return in health and economic benefits,” said Carper (D-Del.), ranking member on the Environment and Public Works Committee.

The chairman of that committee, Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), praised the program, noting it has helped to reduce emissions. Speaking to reporters March 13, the chairman would not specify when the panel would take up the bill.

Meanwhile, the legislation has garnered support from myriad groups, such as the American Association of Port Authorities.

“This funding has been key to incentivizing and expanding port environmental programs to improve air quality impacted by port operations,” AAPA stated during an EPW hearing March 13. “Seaports are working to identify solutions that enhance our coastal resources and reduce environmental impact, not just air emissions.”