Port Indirect Source Rule
Newsletter 6
Dear Friend:
This newsletter is distributed to those groups and individuals who have expressed interest and/or concerns about the Ports ISR to be updated on key developments. We have launched the website NoPortISR.com as an additional avenue to keep the public informed about Port ISR issues. We hope to see you online soon.
Teamsters Join the Growing Labor and Business Coalition United in Opposition to the Ports ISR
The Teamsters Joint Council 42 sent a letter to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson expressing concern about the SCAQMD’s Proposed Ports Indirect Source Rule. The letter reminded the Mayors that San Pedro Bay is responsible for managing 32% of all US imports and 30% of all US exports and directly support 600,000 jobs with an additional 600,000 jobs in related sectors also depending on the Ports’ operations.
The letter underscores the grave risks of an indirect source rule including losing jobs and disrupting supply chains. The piece asks for both Mayors to advocate for a collaborative approach between port stakeholders and Air District staff.
To view the letter, please click HERE.
The South Coast Air Management District (SCAQMD) hosted three technical working group community meetings to discuss the proposed Indirect Source Rule for Commercial Ports. The meetings had a turnout of more than 50 industry stakeholders including Pacific Merchant Shipping Association (PMSA), marine terminal operators, representatives from both ports, International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) labor, and environmental justice groups.
The first meeting featured a discussion that focused on the different mechanisms that SCAQMD is exploring to accomplish emission reductions in the South Coast Air Basin. The second working group meeting focused on Ocean Going Vessels (OGV) and Marine Terminal Operators (MTO). The third meeting addressed Rail Roads and Drayage and trucks. The fourth meeting was scheduled to further discuss Commercial Harbor Craft (CHC).
Following up on the discussions within the working groups, the ILWU and PMSA jointly submitted a letter to Wayne Nastri, SCAQMD executive director. The letter reiterated a fundamental concern shared by both PMSA and ILWU about the lack of technical focus of the working groups and outstanding practical feasibility of achieving.
Notably, whenever topics pertaining to actual emissions reductions or technical challenges were broached, these concerns were often dismissed during the meetings. In response, the letter provided in-depth contextual information on emissions, including factors such as port cargo growth, cargo-handling equipment, emissions trends since 2006, and other pertinent data points. Click here to view the letter.
SCAQMD Governing Board Retreat
The SCAQMD will be hosting a Board retreat in Palm Springs from May 9 to May 10. During this month’s Governing Board Meeting, Chair Delgado mentioned that an additional Ports ISR listening session will occur during the retreat. We encourage stakeholders to attend and speak directly with Board members about your concerns with capping cargo at the ports.
Let’s Get Social:
With your help, we have been able to successfully communicate the broad concerns that exist with a Port ISR, and we need your ongoing support during this critical time when Air District Staff is deciding whether to move forward with a proposal. Please continue to stay engaged by posting and sharing these concerns on your social media platforms using the #NoCargoCap and #NoPortISR hashtags.
With your help, we have been able to successfully communicate the broad concerns that exist with a Port ISR, and we need your ongoing support during this critical time when Air District Staff is deciding whether to move forward with a proposal. Please continue to stay engaged by posting and sharing these concerns on your social media platforms using the #NoCargoCap and #NoPortISR hashtags.
If you know of anyone who should be added to this newsletter, please have them reach out to Natasha Villa at nvilla@pmsaship.com.