CALIFORNIANS PAY FOR DIESEL EXHAUST WITH THEIR HEALTH
Our worst-in-the-nation air pollution leads to more emergency room visits, more money spent on medications, and more missed days at work and school. California is home to 5 of the 10 U.S. cities most polluted by soot, and 88% of Californians live in a community impacted by unhealthy air. The Los Angeles and Long Beach ports are major sources of air pollution in the region, which continues to rank first for the nation’s worst smog and high for particle pollution.
Transportation sources like those operating in and around ports are responsible for 80% of smog-forming pollution and 95% of diesel exhaust, in our air. These pollutants contribute to costly medical emergencies, hospitalizations and death. No one should have to go broke just to breathe.
Senate Bill 34 threatens to block local clean air progress, preempting local air district efforts to clean up pollution from Southern California ports that represent major sources of cancer-causing pollution in neighboring communities. At a time when federal actions aim to roll back clean air protections, we must empower local and state agencies—not tie their hands. Communities impacted by ports and other pollution magnets need relief, not more barriers.
California's state and local clean air agencies need the tools and resources to protect public health from polluted air. The American Lung Association, along with clean air advocates, medical and public health organizations are in strong opposition to SB 34.
Tell your state legislators to vote “NO” on SB 34!
Page last updated: June 26, 2025
