S257 - 2026 Appropriations Act. (SL 2026-41)

• Classified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as not attaining the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for ozone or carbon monoxide (CO) and where the Environmental Management Commission (Commission) of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality determines that a motor vehicle emissions inspection program is required by federal law to achieve attainment with National Ambient Air Quality Standards
• That are currently attaining the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for ozone or CO, but where the Commission finds that motor vehicle emissions inspection programs are necessary to preclude a violation of a current or pending revision to National Ambient Air Quality Standards for ozone or CO.

The county‑based to area‑based emission inspection requirement change becomes effective 15 days after the date that the United States Environmental Protection Agency approves an amendment to the North Carolina State Implementation Plan that removes Mecklenburg County from the State's motor vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program.