What new requirement was established in 2002 for counties without emissions inspection programs?

The establishment of a new requirement in 2002 for counties without emissions inspection programs involved implementing visual antitampering checks of emissions components. This measure was introduced to enhance environmental protection by ensuring that the emissions systems in vehicles are functioning properly and haven't been tampered with. Tampering refers to actions that alter or disable vehicle emissions controls, potentially leading to increased pollution.

These visual checks serve as a straightforward method to verify that critical emissions components, such as catalytic converters and exhaust gas recirculation systems, are intact and operating as intended. This requirement ultimately supports efforts to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles, aligning with broader public health and environmental goals.

The other options do not address the specific requirement set forth in 2002; they either suggest measures that are not part of the established legal framework for emissions inspections at that time or are too broad in scope.