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The House of Representatives passed a resolution aiming to revoke California’s rule banning the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035, garnering significant Republican support along with some Democrats. This measure challenges California’s ability to enforce stricter emissions standards. Environmental advocates rally behind the initiative, while opponents voice concerns over consumer choice and economic impacts. The Senate’s position on this matter remains uncertain, indicating potential future legal and regulatory disputes over California’s climate policies.

California – The House of Representatives voted on Thursday to block California’s ambitious rule that bans the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035. The resolution passed with a vote of 246-164, indicating strong Republican support, along with 35 Democrats who sided with the opposition.

This measure aims to revoke California’s waiver granted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), allowing the state to enforce stricter vehicle emissions standards than those mandated at the federal level. The Senate has not yet indicated whether it plans to take up the resolution, creating uncertainty about the future of California’s vehicle regulations.

California’s rule, approved in 2022, is part of a broader initiative to combat climate change and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. So far, a total of eleven states have committed to align with California’s prohibition on gas-powered car sales, which collectively represents approximately 40% of the U.S. auto market. This collective effort is hailed by environmental advocates as a crucial step towards cleaner air and improved public health.

Opponents of California’s rule, including various Republican lawmakers and business organizations, argue that such regulations threaten consumer choice and could lead to an increase in vehicle prices. Critics express concern that the ambitious goals are “unachievable,” potentially threatening jobs in the automotive industry. Congressman John Joyce introduced the resolution under the Congressional Review Act, insisting that Congress should have definitive authority over the regulations governing the interstate automotive market.

However, findings from the Senate parliamentarian and the Government Accountability Office suggest that Congress does not possess the authority to block California’s climate policy, raising questions about the legitimacy of the House resolution. Congressman Paul Tonko highlighted that this action could set a troubling precedent which might impact other regulatory areas, including Medicaid and energy permits.

California has received three waivers from the EPA during the Biden administration, underscoring its position in spearheading environmental policies that aim to supersede federal standards. Following the resolution, California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office has indicated the possibility of pursuing legal challenges should the state’s regulatory authority be undermined.

As environmental advocates continue to support California’s stringent measures, expressing confidence that such policies are key to addressing climate change, opponents remain resolute in their belief that such regulation undermines consumer autonomy. Groups representing automakers and oil refiners have actively lobbied for the revocation of the waiver, suggesting that the tight restrictions may lead to unintended economic consequences.

The actions taken by the House could establish wider implications for state-level regulatory powers concerning environmental policies, signaling a critical moment in the ongoing dialogue about climate change and the transition to electric vehicles. As the Senate deliberates its next steps, stakeholders on both sides remain vigilant, preparing for the potential ramifications of this legislative move.

House Votes to Block California’s Gasoline Vehicle Ban

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Author: HERE Huntington Beach