(1) The general assembly declares that it is in the interest of the state to reduce and prevent air pollution from certain new heating and water heating appliances in order to:
- (a) Protect the air that Coloradans breathe by reducing unhealthy levels of smog and ozone, which have hit record highs in Colorado in recent years and have disproportionately impacted low-income areas;
- (b) Minimize health risks associated with air pollution, including respiratory ailments such as asthma and cardiovascular illnesses, which are linked to exposure to fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide;
- (c) Assist Colorado counties in achieving attainment of federal ozone national ambient air quality standards;
- (d) Improve the clarity of scenic views for purposes of facilitating enjoyment of Colorado's bountiful natural resources and maintain its reputation for high-quality outdoor recreation;
- (e) Mitigate the effects of climate change;
- (f) Contribute to the state's economy by building a trained and competitive workforce to install and maintain newly purchased appliances; and
- (g) Ensure that the benefits of clean and healthy air are distributed to all parts of the state.
Source: L. 2023: Entire part added, (HB 23-1161), ch. 285, p. 1711, § 9, effective August 7.