SACRAMENTO – Pep Boys Company has agreed to pay $154,000 in penalties to the Air Resources Board for selling all-terrain vehicles in California in violation of state air quality standards.

"Retailers who sell engines not certified to meet California standards will be held fully accountable for their actions," said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. "Compliance with our regulations is a crucial step toward improving air quality and protecting public health."

In December 2006, Pep Boys sold and offered for sale Baja Motorsports' Storm 125cc ATVs to California customers. After becoming aware that the ATVs failed to meet California emissions requirements, the company reported its violations and settled the case. 

Evaporative emissions from off-road recreational vehicles are a major source of hydrocarbon emissions in the state especially during the summer ozone season. California has dramatically tightened emission standards for off-road mobile sources and the fuels that power them because they contribute to both ozone- forming pollutants and carbon monoxide. 

The $154,000 in penalties were paid to the Air Pollution Control Fund which is used to fund projects that mitigate pollution through education and the advancement and use of cleaner technology. This fund uses penalties paid in enforcement actions to support various pollution-related research projects and programs. The Legislature controls the use of the Air Pollution Control Fund through the annual Budget Act.