(a)
For purposes of this section, “low-income motor vehicle owner” means a person whose income does not exceed 185 percent of the federal poverty level.
(b)
Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 44017, for low-income motor vehicle owners qualified under Section 44062.1, the repair cost limit, including parts and labor, shall be two hundred fifty dollars ($250) in all areas where the program operates. However, the department may decrease that amount, to not more than two hundred dollars ($200), if the department determines that participation rates are unsatisfactory.
(c)
Until such time as a repair assistance program becomes effective pursuant to Section 44062.1, an economic hardship extension shall be issued upon request to a qualified low-income motor vehicle owner whose motor vehicle has been tested but does not meet applicable emissions standards and the necessary repairs exceed the repair cost limit specified in subdivision (b).