In 2016, the United States settled complaints against Volkswagen AG, et al. The settlement resolved claims that Volkswagen violated the Clean Air Act by selling approximately 590,000 vehicles with 2.0- and 3.0-liter diesel engines having emissions defeat devices. The vehicles were from model years 2009 to 2016. 

As part of their engine control modules, the vehicles contained computer algorithms and calibrations that caused emission control systems to perform differently during emissions testing to guarantee passing scores. During normal operation, the vehicles emitted levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) that significantly exceeded EPA standards.

The settlement consisted of multiple agreements and required Volkswagen to take certain actions, such as paying $2.9 billion to a national environmental mitigation trust fund. Beneficiaries — in this case, states — must use their shares to fund specific projects that reduce emissions of NOx from mobile sources. Visit the Volkswagen Trust Advisory Committee page for past meeting documents and videos

Settlement

Missouri’s Plan

The department finalized Missouri’s 10-year Beneficiary Mitigation Plan for using proceeds from the Volkswagen Trust. The plan summarizes goals for the trust and establishes award categories. Projects that fall under these categories will be eligible for funding. The plan meets requirements of the federal consent decree governing the Volkswagen Trust. The department created the plan over several months, guided by public input.

Outreach

Before writing the draft beneficiary mitigation plan, the department's Air Pollution Control Program held four informational meetings and other meetings to gather additional input and discuss issues with stakeholders. 

The department received comments about the Volkswagen Trust Funds at those meeting and through the following outreach activities:

The Volkswagen Trust Advisory Committee helped the department's Air Pollution Control Program review comments and suggestions and advised during the development of Missouri's 10-year beneficiary mitigation plan.

Semi-Annual Reports