In a significant policy shift, the U.S. Senate voted 51-44 to revoke California’s authority to enforce its 2035 ban on new gasoline-powered vehicle sales. This decision nullifies a waiver previously granted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Biden administration, which allowed California to implement stricter emissions standards than those at the federal level. The resolution now awaits President Donald Trump’s signature, who is expected to endorse it.
California’s plan aimed to mandate that 100% of new vehicle sales be zero-emission by 2035, with interim targets of 35% by 2026 and 68% by 2030. The policy had been adopted by 11 other states, collectively representing about 40% of the U.S. auto market. Proponents argued that the mandate was essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. However, opponents, including major automakers and Republican lawmakers, contended that the targets were unrealistic given current consumer demand and infrastructure limitations.
The Senate’s action has sparked a legal debate over the use of the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to overturn the EPA’s waiver. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) previously opined that such waivers are not subject to CRA repeal, as they are not considered rules under the Administrative Procedure Act. Despite this, the current administration proceeded with the revocation, raising concerns about the precedent it sets for federal-state relations in environmental policymaking.
Environmental advocates and California officials have criticized the Senate’s decision, viewing it as a setback for climate action and public health. Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta have vowed to challenge the revocation in court, emphasizing California’s historical role in pioneering emissions standards. They argue that the state’s authority to set stricter environmental regulations is vital for addressing local air quality issues and advancing national climate goals.
Conversely, industry groups and some lawmakers welcomed the Senate’s move, asserting that it prevents California from imposing its standards on other states. They argue that a uniform national policy is preferable and that consumer choice should not be limited by state mandates. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, representing major automakers, expressed concerns about the feasibility of meeting California’s targets, especially in states with lower EV adoption rates.
As the resolution awaits presidential approval, the future of state-led environmental initiatives hangs in the balance. The outcome will likely influence the trajectory of the U.S. automotive industry’s transition to electric vehicles and the broader national strategy for addressing climate change. Legal challenges and political debates are expected to continue, highlighting the complexities of balancing federal authority with state innovation in environmental regulation.
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