Diesel Technology Forum Statement on the Administration's Proposed FY 2012 Budget

WASHINGTON, Feb. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Diesel Technology Forum Executive Director, Allen Schaeffer, issued the following statement today in reaction to the release of the Obama Administration FY 2011 budget, relative to the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) grant program that provides grants to states for projects that modernize and upgrade existing diesel engines and equipment:

"We understand the challenges of this budget, but truly don't understand the President's proposal to eliminate all funding for the Environmental Protection Agency's Diesel Emissions Reduction Program (also known as DERA).  

"It's hard to imagine any program that has delivered more return on investment for the American People. According to EPA, DERA returns a minimum of $13 dollars for every dollar invested, and by some estimates, as high as $20 for every $1 invested through environmental and public health benefits.  DERA's popularity is further evidenced by the fact that grant applications have far exceeded funding levels for each of the last few years by as much as 7:1, with grant applicants also putting more than $2 Billion in private matching funds on the table.

"Last year's Reauthorization of the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) was one of the few pieces of legislation to be enacted in the 'Lame Duck' Session of Congress.  It was identified as a true example of bipartisan legislation with broad support of Republicans, Democrats, industry and environmental groups alike.   

"The proposed elimination in the FY 2012 budget is especially ironic since just a few weeks ago President Obama signed into law the reauthorization of DERA for another 5 years.  

"We look forward to working with Members of Congress and others who recognize the importance of proven and affordable programs that deliver real value to the American People." 

ABOUT THE DIESEL TECHNOLOGY FORUM

The Diesel Technology Forum is a non-profit national organization dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of diesel engines, fuel and technology. Forum members are leaders in clean diesel technology and represent the three key elements of the modern clean-diesel system: advanced engines, vehicles and equipment, cleaner diesel fuel and emissions-control systems.  For more information visit www.dieselforum.org.

Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link.

Allen Schaeffer

http://www.profnetconnect.com/allen.schaeffer

CONTACT: Allen Schaeffer, Executive Director, 301-514-9046

SOURCE Diesel Technology Forum

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