It appears that the EPA , might be changing its position on DEF for diesel trucks/RVs. The current administration is removing the ability of States to apply for waivers to pass state laws on vehicle emissions. Looks like CARB and similar state departments days are numbered.
DEF Law Changes Diesel Trucks
Recent developments regarding diesel trucks and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) laws have been shaped by significant regulatory changes under the Trump administration. The EPA has rolled back several emissions regulations, including those related to diesel trucks, which has sparked discussions about the legality of modifications such as "deleted" diesel trucks Despite these rollbacks, federal law still prohibits tampering with emission controls on motor vehicles, and removing or disabling factory emission controls remains illegal under the Clean Air Act
The EPA's recent actions include reconsidering vehicle emissions standards and halting the "Clean Trucks Plan" which aimed to reduce NOx emissions from heavy-duty engines Additionally, the Big Beautiful Bill, H.R. 1, repealed the Diesel Emissions Reduction Program (DERA) and other emission-related funding, which could affect local emissions compliance incentives However, it is important to note that while these rollbacks may offer regulatory relief for manufacturers and fleets, they do not make the removal of emissions equipment legal
In terms of DEF requirements, there is no federal regulation mandating all diesel trucks to use DEF. However, some states have implemented their own regulations requiring fleets to utilize DEF, with penalties for non-compliance The EPA has clarified that certain vehicle classes do not require DEF, such as Class 1-3 vehicles weighing less than 8,500 pounds empty weight and vehicles used exclusively for off-road use
As of now, the legality of deleted diesel trucks remains unchanged, and the EPA has not explicitly legalized the practice of removing or disabling emissions control equipment The situation is further complicated by the potential for state-level variations in enforcement, particularly in states like California, which has its own stringent emissions regulations