Currently they are, depending on model:
In the future the job gets tougher as California will require Catalytic converters on the exhaust.
CARB is an acronym for California Air Resource Board, whose stringent air-quality standards have been adopted by many states. A Non-CARB Compliant Engine fails to meet these standards. While CARB-compliant engines run cleaner than non-compliant models, they still emit pollutants.
Only one state remains with ambiguous carb-compliant catalytic converter laws. All states are completely carb-compliant with the exception of California.
funding for small trucking companies to help get CARB compliant
Non-CARB means that is non compliant with California standards for their emission requirements.
I love carbs
The best example of an ultra low emission gas mower is the Honda HRS216PDA. It's engine is CARB compliant and delivers huge fuel economy and low emissions.
dirty carb bowl or water in the carb
Inlet needle in carb sticking open; it runs in through the carb.
It's hard to explain here without graphics. I suggest going to your local public library and checking out a manual on small engines with all the details.
try cleaning the carb. generally when it starts and dies it is a sign of a blocked passage in the carb
on the fuel line running from the tank to the carb.
Don't run it. remove the cup that the gas sits in using a wrench. soak in regular unleaded gas for a little while 30 minutes & reassemble carb cup & bolt it up to the mower.... check youtube/mower carb cleaning.