OUR VIEW: Valley needs emissions testing

Cache Valley is just getting out of another winter full of inversion-filled air, chest colds gone worse and four months of barely seeing a mountain. We just barely crawled under Environmental Protection Agency action – but just barely. Another cold winter and continued growth in population and the EPA will be right here – creating mandatory emissions testing for vehicles. We might as well save our pride and make the requirement ourselves.

Sure, Cache Valley is a beautiful and spacious valley that lacks the population other counties in Utah have that already have required testing. But, it’s growing. And getting uglier with each puff of exhaust that comes out of cars. Plus, the valley is bowl-shaped, which keeps dirty air right at breathing level for a longer period of time.

There are plenty of reasons to require emissions testing. Yes, it’s going to be a few extra dollars every year to get tested. But, guaranteed, our beautiful valley will stay beautiful for longer, our lungs will feel more healthy and we might just be able to actually see our snowy mountains from December to March.

Logan city Mayor Doug Thompson admits we have a major problem, but is only recommending a voluntary emissions testing program. That doesn’t make much sense. Those who know their vehicle won’t pass the test would never voluntarily test it, only to find out they have to spend more money. Thompson said those who choose not to be tested would not be allowed to drive on certain days. There is no way to monitor that. Voluntary testing barely touches the problem.

Emissions testing is not a violation of any type of freedom; it only enlarges freedom. Many new residents moved to Cache Valley for its beauty, which long-time residents have enjoyed. Let’s keep our freedom of breathing clean air. Let’s require emissions testing.