Today the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) released a proposed Volkswagen Beneficiary Mitigation Plan (BMP).

According to DEQ, the BMP is a high-level plan describing the State’s intentions for utilizing Oklahoma’s funding allocation from the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust.

The state has been allotted nearly $21 million for NOx (oxides of nitrogen pollution) emissions reductions projects which potentially include: diesel vehicle replacements, off road equipment replacements, school bus replacements, and electric vehicle charger installations.

A public meeting will be held at 707 N. Robinson Ave in Oklahoma City from 1-4 p.m., May 8. DEQ will present on the BMP and comments can be given. Comments on the BMP will be accepted until May 24, 2018.

For the draft plan, how to submit comments, and more: www.deq.state.ok.us/aqdnew/vwsettlement.

“ACOG appreciates DEQ’s balanced proposal regarding the types of projects the state is considering for VW funding projects and the prioritization of Central Oklahoma Counties for mitigation projects, said John M. Sharp, Deputy Director, ACOG. “ACOG will continue to partner with DEQ and the state to ensure cleaner air for Central Oklahomans.”