The government is pushing revamped legislation to regulate vehicle emissions in the country, all in an effort to lower The Bahamas’ collective carbon footprint.

According to a statement sent by Environment Minister Kenred Dorsett, this proposed legislation calls for all passenger vehicles excluding antique vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles with electric motor attached or motor scooters to undergo emissions testing.

“The owners of motor vehicles would be required to present their vehicles for testing on an annual basis,” he said.

“Such test would be conducted under the guidance of the controller of the Road Traffic Department. Should the vehicle pass the emissions test a certificate of standard will be issued which should be affixed to the motor vehicle.”

He added that should the vehicle not meet the set standard a grace period of four weeks will be granted in order to become compliant.

There are also penalties for persons failing to present their vehicles for emissions testing at the prescribed time.

“This intended legislation also contains a schedule of the maximum permissible emissions for passenger vehicles, light trucks, heavy trucks and diesel fueled vehicles,” the minister added.

“There is also a schedule of fees to be levied for the annual emissions testing.”

A copy of the bill called the Environmental Health (Vehicle Emissions) Regulations 2013 is being released to begin the process of public consultation on this matter.

The bill be will be available for viewing or download by the general public via internet at www.bahamas.gov.bs and on the Ministry of Environment and Housing’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ministryofeh or copies can be obtained from the Ministry of Environment and Housing on Shirley and Charlotte Streets.