Trump challenges California's zero-emission vehicle mandate
The administration of President Donald Trump has moved to address California's emissions regulations. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced that decisions on special privileges for California regarding emissions standards will be submitted for Congressional review.
Automakers, dealers, and fuel producers have raised concerns regarding California's law. They find the local standards for car sales challenging to meet. The regulations stipulate that starting in 2026, at least 35 percent of vehicles sold in the state should be zero-emission vehicles.
California "bans" gasoline-powered cars
The dispute involves three EPA decisions made during Joe Biden's presidency, allowing California to implement its own stricter emissions standards. This applies to both passenger and heavy-duty vehicles. The Clean Cars II program envisions a complete ban on the sale of conventional gasoline-powered vehicles in California by 2035.
California's regulations are designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to the plan, by 2040, emissions from light-duty vehicles in the state are to be reduced by more than half. These rules also apply in other states that have opted to adopt California's standards, which collectively account for about 30 percent of the U.S. automotive market.
Trump seeks to reverse Biden’s decisions
The administration of President Donald Trump aims to alter the current regulations. Special privileges regarding emissions standards are to be reassigned to Congress, removing them from state jurisdiction.
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) points out in a statement that the practice of issuing special permits for the state has been in use for 50 years by both Republican and Democratic administrations.
