California Governor Vetoes Maritime Safety Bill, Sparking Industry Concern

California Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed Assembly Bill 1122, a piece of legislation aimed at enhancing maritime safety and port efficiency in the state.

The bill, which passed almost unanimously in the state legislature, addressed concerns raised by the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Commercial Harbor Craft rule.

AB 1122 would have mandated that equipment like Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) on commercial vessels include a bypass-safety system and be certified safe by third-party experts. It also proposed allowing vessel operators to install CARB-mandated equipment during scheduled inspections to minimize service disruptions.

These filters, while not commercially available for maritime engines, have been associated with fire risks in the trucking industry. The U.S. Coast Guard had previously expressed reservations about enforcing the CHC rule due to these safety concerns.

In his veto message, Governor Newsom stated, “This bill would make multiple changes to the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Commercial Harbor Craft (CHC) regulation, including the delay of certain compliance dates and an override system for diesel particulate filter devices with a detailed monitoring, tracking, and reporting system.”

Newsom further explained, “Unfortunately, this bill undermines this balance and jeopardizes our clean air goals.” He encouraged vessel operators to work towards meeting the CHC regulations and to continue working with CARB if they face insurmountable challenges.

The veto has drawn criticism from industry leaders.

“We are [sic] deeply disappointed that Gov. Newsom has vetoed this critical legislation, and in doing so, has put mariner safety at risk and jeopardized the safety, sustainability and efficiency of the California and global supply chain,” said Jennifer Carpenter, President & CEO of the American Waterways Operators, who has been vocal proponent of the bill.

Capt. Sly Hunter, San Francisco & Oakland Representative of the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots, added, “It is regrettable that Gov. Newsom chose to veto legislation that would have been far more effective not only in keeping them safe from the risks of dangerous equipment, but also in preventing major congestion in our ports at a fragile time for our nation’s economy.”