Modernizing Transportation
Transportation generates approximately 37% of emissions in Massachusetts – the largest source in the state. Decades of underfunding have left the MBTA unreliable and underutilized. By investing in electrified transportation solutions, we can reduce emissions, make communities healthier, and drive our state’s competitiveness.
ELM advocates for outcomes that provide sustained funding for transit agencies, align transportation investments with our climate goals, expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and develop passenger vehicle alternatives. Learn more about our legislative priorities for transportation.
RELATED DECISIONS:
May 23, 2025 – Massachusetts has long followed California’s vehicle emissions standards under Section 177 of the federal Clean Air Act, including regulations to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty trucks. The state adopted the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) and Heavy-Duty Omnibus (HDO) rules to align with its climate mandates and reduce pollution from some of the most emissions-intensive vehicles on the road.
However, Massachusetts has now delayed implementation of key ACT and HDO requirements, allowing manufacturers to continue selling higher-polluting vehicles beyond the original timeline. These delays come as Massachusetts is already far behind its 2025 targets for electric trucks and buses.
ELM is concerned that postponing these standards will widen the gap between our climate commitments and real-world progress, prolong harmful air pollution, and slow the transition to cleaner, healthier transportation across the Commonwealth.
