Safety on the road is taking a turn for the better following an announcement from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Small businesses and farmers have reason to breathe a sigh of relief, thanks to new measures addressing diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) systems. Representative Michelle Davis of Whiteland has loudly voiced her approval after the EPA shared plans to rectify a DEF system issue that was causing significant hazards on highways.
The change comes on the heels of a "dangerous DEF system-related incident," involving a small business in Davis's district. "After a small business in my district experienced a dangerous DEF system-related incident on the highway, I knew something needed to change," Davis explained. "I'm grateful to the EPA and Trump Administration for taking time to listen to our concerns and work toward a common-sense solution," she added in a statement obtained by Indiana House Republicans. The forthcoming protocol will ensure a safer travel experience for everyone on the road.
Starting with 2027 models, the EPA will require all new diesel on-road trucks to be manufactured in such a way that they avoid the sudden, severe power loss that can occur when DEF runs out. The problem is not reserved for future fleets alone; the EPA also indicated that existing vehicles would not be left in the lurch. They're rolling out new guidance developed together with manufacturers, aiming to alter the necessary software on vehicles already in use.
Davis pointed out the serious risks of the current DEF systems, which can reduce a vehicle's speed dramatically or leave it completely inoperable if DEF runs out or if a system sensor fails. This places drivers and others on highways in a vulnerable position, potentially cutting speeds to a crawl of five miles per hour. "This update will make our highways safer and help small businesses and farmers continue to work and provide quality service to their customers," Davis stated in the same press release. It's clear that this move by the EPA is putting into gear necessary safeguards for those who keep America moving.
