The U.S. Senate is set to take action this week to prevent California from enforcing stricter vehicle emissions standards. These standards include a groundbreaking plan to phase out the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a Republican from South Dakota, announced that the Senate will consider three resolutions passed by the House aimed at rolling back these regulations. Votes could happen as soon as this week.
This move comes despite strong opposition from Democrats, concerns from some Republicans, and guidance from the Senate Parliamentarian, who believes California’s policies should not be subject to this review process. The resolutions target not only the ban on new gas-powered vehicles but also regulations aimed at reducing emissions from trucks and heavy-duty vehicles.
Republicans argue that California’s rules could effectively set a national standard, effectively mandating electric vehicles across the country. Thune criticized the rules as an “improper expansion” of the Clean Air Act, claiming they could harm consumers and the economy. California has historically been allowed to adopt stricter emissions standards than the federal government. Governor Gavin Newsom announced the state’s plan in 2020 as part of efforts to combat climate change.
In December, the Biden administration approved California’s request to implement these stricter standards, reversing a decision made by the Trump administration in 2019 that stripped the state of its authority. The Biden administration argued that opponents of California’s waivers failed to prove they were inconsistent with the Clean Air Act.
Newsom has expressed concern over the Republican pushback, noting a significant shift in the party’s stance on environmental issues compared to past leaders like Nixon and Reagan. He emphasized that clean air should not be a political issue and pledged to defend California’s vehicle program.
Senate Democrats are rallying against the GOP’s efforts. Senator Alex Padilla from California stated he would place holds on several pending Environmental Protection Agency nominations in response to this attempt to roll back emissions standards. He warned that if Republicans succeed, it could have serious implications for public health, the economy, and the Senate’s role in overseeing federal actions.
While Republicans need just a simple majority to pass the resolutions, it’s uncertain if they will have full support within their ranks. Some Republicans, including Senator Susan Collins of Maine, have raised questions about the process despite agreeing with the underlying policy.
Thune downplayed concerns about the process, insisting that their actions are about maintaining the Senate’s authority. As the situation develops, the outcome remains uncertain, with potential impacts on environmental policy and public health hanging in the balance.