As anticipated, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted the Zero Emission Forklift Regulation at a hearing on June 27 to phase-out large spark-ignited (e.g., propane, gas & natural gas) forklifts by 2038. Ag Council staff provided comments during the hearing to raise concerns about the significant cost burden placed on the agricultural community, among other issues.
CARB developed the regulation to phase-in electric and hydrogen fuel cell forklifts, emphasizing the replacement of internal combustion engine forklifts.
The regulation takes effect on January 1, 2026. Agricultural operations were provided more time to attain compliance under the regulation. Specifically, the phase-out for Class 4 propane forklifts is 2029 and Class 5 is 2030. An exemption was included in the regulation for rough terrain and in-field forklifts. In addition, the rule allows for a compliance extension to be considered if the state faces infrastructure and/or construction delays. Per a resolution, CARB can revisit the rule in the event updates are needed in outlying years.
Prior to adoption of the regulation and knowing its implementation will have a major impact on the agricultural community, Ag Council joined the Western Agricultural Processors Association, California Cotton Ginners and Growers Association, and other agricultural stakeholders to submit coalition comments to CARB. Click HERE to read the full coalition comments submitted to CARB in early June.