In a well-sealed indoor environment (e.g., windows and doors closed and sealed tightly), HEPA air filtration devices, such as those that will be offered under this program, can reduce particulate matter indoors by more than 90 percent. Use of air filtration devices to create “clean air rooms”, such as a bedroom, will ensure that the home has a dedicated space with safe indoor air quality during smoke events.
“Smoke from severe wildfires can inundate the Valley and make its way into homes, causing significant health impacts, especially to the Valley’s most vulnerable residents,” stated Samir Sheikh, Executive Director/APCO of the Valley Air District. “This program, which was designed in partnership with the residents, organizations, and other stakeholders in these AB 617 communities, is designed to help protect families living in these impacted neighborhoods.”
Residents who live in these communities who are interested in information about this program can visit the AB 617 community boundary page to determine their eligibility; additionally they can receive program updates by signing up for the AB 617: Residential Air Filtration Program email notification list or by calling or emailing District staff at 559-230-5800 or grants@valleyair.org.
The AB 617 Community Air Protection Program is designed to improve quality of life for the state’s most disadvantaged communities through community-led efforts to identify and address local air pollution concerns. Each community is guided by a steering committee comprised of local residents, environmental justice organizations, business representatives, local and regional agencies, and other community stakeholders. Through community programs approved to date, over $140 million of funding has been allocated for clean air investments in the Valley’s AB 617 communities. This program is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that puts billions of Cap-and-Trade dollars to work reducing emissions, strengthening the economy and improving public health and the environment — particularly in disadvantaged communities.
