(a) The department, in cooperation with the state board, shall investigate new technologies, including the role of onboard diagnostic systems in vehicles, as a means both for detecting excess emissions and defective emission control equipment, and for assisting in determining what repairs would be effective.
(b) To incorporate new technologies into the program, the department may institute the following changes if the department determines that the changes will be cost-effective and convenient to vehicle owners:
(1) The schedule for testing and certifying vehicles.
(2) The location and method for complying with the test requirements otherwise applicable under this chapter.
(3) The equipment requirements and repair procedures, including the imposition of new or revised diagnostic procedures, to be used at licensed smog check stations.
(4) The training, skill, and licensing requirements for smog check technicians.
(5) The applicable test procedures and emission standards, as applied at smog check stations, and during roadside inspection.
(Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 728, Sec. 93. (SB 71) Effective January 1, 2013.)