California ARB fines Volvo $197 million for air pollution violations

On May 18, 2026, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) announced that Volvo has agreed to pay the state nearly $197 million as a settlement for alleged violations of emissions and certification requirements for some of its vehicles that were sold in California.  

Generic Heavy Duty Trucks Photo, Credit: CARB

The settlement  consists of approximately $18 million in penalties and costs, $71 million towards mitigation of the air quality harm caused by the violations, and an additional $108 million toward emission reduction projects throughout the state.

The settlement was the result of Volvo using undisclosed auxiliary emission control devices (AECD) that violated state requirements. These devices were used in approximately 10,000 Volvo diesel engines for model years 2010 through 2016. CARB alleged that the AECDs were not adequately disclosed during the required emission certification process, a major violation of California's heavy-duty engine regulations.

As a result, these engines emitted more smog forming nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions than allowed by law.

Also, as part of the settlement, Volvo agreed to recall, repair, and extend warranties to address the non-compliant AECDs for model year 2014 through 2016 diesel engines.

Said CARB Chair Lauren Sanchez, “This case underscores why CARB's compliance testing and strong enforcement are essential to protecting the state's air quality and public health. Our responsibility goes beyond adopting regulations — we are committed to upholding them by identifying violations and holding companies accountable for meeting emissions standards.” 

For more information: Volvo Settlement FAQs

EPA gives California $77 million to address PFAS in drinking water

Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $77.257 million grant to California to fund efforts to address PFAS and emerging contaminants in California communities that need it the most.

Photo Credit: USEPA Region IX

According to EPA, the funding is part of a comprehensive, lifecycle-based strategy to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exemplifying EPA's commitment to Making America Healthy Again (MAHA) by ensuring clean water for all.

“With this investment, EPA is demonstrating our commitment to the goal of every American having safe drinking water,” said Acting EPA Pacific Southwest Region (Region IX) Administrator Michael Martucci. “Providing funding, affordable financing, and technical assistance to help Pacific Southwest communities get PFAS out of drinking water will bring lasting positive impacts where they are needed most.”

The grant is part of an overall $144.5 million funding effort for states and territories across the Pacific Southwest, allocated as follows:

Funding Allocations

• American Samoa $9,457,000
• Arizona $20,003,000
• California $77,257,000 
• Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands $9,457,000
• Guam $9,457,000
• Hawaii $9,457,000
• Nevada $9,457,000

For more information on this grant program, click on this link: Emerging Contaminants – Small or Disadvantaged Communities grant program