The Air Resources Board is taking comments on a regulatory proposal to transition propane forklifts to zero-emission models by 2038.
 
A coalition of agriculture groups is opposing it, arguing the rules would have an overwhelming impact on the industry. The draft regulation would eliminate the use of Class 4 and Class 5 internal combustion forklifts starting in 2026. Packers and processing facilities would begin to feel the pinch in 2029, retiring a “staggering” 55% of forklifts, according to an industry estimate. By the second compliance date, in 2032, the regulation would target 96% of ag forklifts. The proposal does not address rough terrain and diesel forklifts.
 
The coalition is pushing for more time to comply. Treating ag operations like year-round businesses would burden them with a devastating capital expenditure and jeopardize their economic viability, according to the comments to CARB. The organizations also worry that rural areas are not equipped with the energy infrastructure to handle the charging capacity for so many electric forklifts.
 
CARB will host a public hearing on the regulation in June.

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