On Wednesday, the Biden administration granted approval for California’s groundbreaking regulations aimed at establishing emissions standards that exceed federal requirements, ultimately seeking to eliminate the sale of gas-powered cars by 2035.
In this decision, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) responded to two requests from the California Air Resources Board for waivers necessary to implement two important rules: the Advanced Clean Cars II regulations for light-duty vehicles and a low-nitrogen oxide regulation for heavy-duty highway and off-road vehicles and engines.
California’s authority to set such standards stems from a provision in the 1970 Clean Air Act, which was created during a time of severe smog in the Los Angeles area. However, the state must first obtain a waiver from the EPA for each proposed rule, allowing other states to adopt similar regulations afterward.
Despite California’s ability to enact these stricter emissions regulations, uncertainty looms regarding the enforcement of these rules under a potential Trump administration, which has pledged to revoke any waivers that have been granted.
Recently, the Supreme Court accepted a petition from the oil industry aimed at reviving a lawsuit against the Biden administration regarding the anticipated reinstatement of California’s clean cars initiative. Nevertheless, the approved Advanced Clean Cars II rule will require that 35 percent of vehicles sold in California by 2026 be zero-emission, escalating to 68 percent by 2030 and reaching 100 percent by 2035.
Additionally, the nitrogen oxide regulation, referred to as the “Omnibus regulation,” aims to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from heavy-duty vehicles by 90 percent, overhaul engine testing protocols, and expand engine warranty periods.
“California has a long-standing right to request waivers from the EPA to safeguard its residents from harmful air pollution generated by mobile sources like cars and trucks,” stated EPA Administrator Michael Regan. Regan further emphasized, “Today’s actions fulfill the EPA’s commitment to collaborate with states to reduce emissions and address the challenges posed by climate change.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom (D) expressed his support for the EPA’s decision, highlighting in a statement that “clean cars are here to stay.” He noted that with an increasing variety of makes and models, millions of Californians have already transitioned to cleaner vehicles.
Pointing out that automakers are committed to remaining in California, Newsom remarked on the cost-saving benefits of zero-emission vehicles. “Critics like President-elect Trump may choose to align with the oil industry rather than consumers and American automakers, but California will persist in promoting innovation within the market,” the governor asserted.