Contact:	Caroline Holland (202) 543-1440 c.holland@att.net
For Release:	Immediate News Bulletin PR-30 May 16, 2008

California Air Resources Board Hosts
Automotive Cool Paints Workshop

CARB Calls for Comments on Proposed Regulation

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 16, 2008 - The California Air Resources Board (CARB) held a workshop yesterday titled “Cool Paints and Solar Reflective Glazing.” The purpose of the workshop was to discuss approaches to reduce emissions from mobile air conditioners, including solar reflective paints and window glazing. Discussion focused on the planned regulatory approach for these reductions that resulted from California Assembly Bill 32. This legislation, signed into law in 2006, directed ARB to reduce California’s greenhouse gas emissions from all sources.

The use of air conditioners in motor vehicles greatly increases vehicular fuel consumption which translates into greater carbon dioxide emissions. Therefore, an obvious proposal to reduce carbon dioxide emissions has been to reduce air conditioner use. The proposed measure would require manufacturers to equip new vehicles with technologies that will reduce the solar heat gain of a vehicle parked in the sun. Some approaches to reducing interior temperatures include solar reflective paints and window glazing.

During the workshop, CARB staffers informed stakeholders about the proposed action, solicited input as to the most effective way to author the regulation and gathered information about the anticipated cost. The Automotive Service Association (ASA) participated in the workshop.

Comments regarding the proposed regulation are being accepted in writing or by e-mail from interested stakeholders. Comments or questions can be directed to Dr. Marijke Bekken at mbekken@arb.ca.gov. A copy of the comments should be sent to Ms. Sharon Lemieux at sclemieu@arb.ca.gov. Comments may also be faxed to (626) 459-4480.

To view the Regulatory Language Draft, visit ASA’s legislative Web site, www.TakingTheHill.com. The draft can be found in the “Press Center” under “References and Bills.” The text of California A.B. 32 can be found under “Track Current Legislation” by clicking on “State Legislation.”

The Automotive Service Association is the largest not-for-profit trade association of its kind dedicated to and governed by independent automotive service and repair professionals. ASA serves an international membership base that includes numerous affiliate, state and chapter groups from both the mechanical and collision repair segments of the automotive service industry. ASA's headquarters is in Bedford, Texas.

ASA advances professionalism and excellence in the automotive repair industry through education, representation and member services. For additional information about ASA, including past news releases, go to www.ASAshop.org, or visit ASA's legislative Web site at www.TakingTheHill.com.

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