South Coast AQMD’s Governing Board has approved
a landmark Cooperative Agreement with the Ports
of Long Beach and Los Angeles that sets the
foundation for accelerating the transition to zero-emission
infrastructure across the nation’s largest port complex.
The enforceable agreement requires the ports to develop
and implement comprehensive plans for charging and
fueling infrastructure, supporting the move toward cleaner
operations for trucks, trains, cargo handling equipment,
harbor craft, and ocean-going vessels. South Coast AQMD
will oversee implementation and verify progress through
annual reporting and updates to the Governing Board.
The agreement includes enforceable measures such as
penalties for noncompliance, ranging from $50,000
to $200,000 per default. Funds collected through
these penalties will be directed to projects benefiting
communities near the ports.
Since 2022, South Coast AQMD has engaged stakeholders
through nearly 30 public meetings, including Board and
committee meetings, community sessions, and office hours.
Public feedback played a key role in shaping the final
agreement—strengthening enforcement, doubling penalties,
and establishing a transparent process for developing and
updating infrastructure plans.
Under the terms of the agreement:
• The Ports will prepare infrastructure plans in three
phases, each outlining key milestones, targets, and opportunities for public input.
• South Coast AQMD will provide annual oversight and reporting to ensure accountability and transparency.
• The Cooperative Agreement includes a 45-day exit clause, allowing any party to withdraw if the agreement is no longer working as intended.
The Governing Board also adopted a resolution to pause
rulemaking for five years, allowing time for infrastructure
planning and implementation, while preserving South Coast
AQMD’s authority to resume rulemaking if the agreement
is terminated early.
The Cooperative Agreement has been approved by each
Port’s Board of Harbor Commissioners and the South Coast
AQMD Governing Board, and is now fully executed.
This collaborative effort represents a major step forward
in achieving cleaner air, healthier communities, and a
sustainable goods movement system that supports both
environmental and economic progress.
For more information, visit:
www.aqmd.gov/portsagreement.