Trump to Block California’s Leading Emissions Rules

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    President Donald Trump is poised to sign a legislative measure on Thursday aimed at nullifying California’s ambitious rule that bans the sale of new gas-powered vehicles by 2035. This decision, confirmed by a White House official who wished to remain anonymous, aligns with Trump’s broader strategy to challenge California’s environmental policies. These measures, approved by Congress last month, seek to curb the state’s progressive efforts to transition from gas-powered to electric vehicles. Official remarks and the signing are scheduled to occur in the White House on Thursday morning.

    This move highlights ongoing tensions between Trump’s administration and state authorities in California, led by Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom. Recent disputes have included topics such as military deployments during immigration protests, trade tariffs, LGBTQ+ youth rights, and funding for energy infrastructure. A spokesperson for Newsom remarked, “If it’s a day ending in Y, it’s another day of Trump’s war on California,” emphasizing the state’s commitment to defending its policies.

    In addition to blocking California’s vehicle emissions rules, Trump is expected to counteract policies targeting the production of smog-forming pollutants from trucks. Governor Newsom has indicated that California will pursue legal action, arguing the federal government’s tactics are unlawful.

    Key members of Trump’s administration are set to attend the signing event, including Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, alongside industry representatives and congressional members. The move aligns with Trump’s commitment to revitalizing American automotive production and expanding the oil and gas sectors. It coincides with the EPA’s proposal to repeal regulations limiting greenhouse gas emissions from coal and natural gas power plants, which Zeldin claims will alleviate industry costs and enhance energy independence.

    California has historically leveraged waivers from the EPA to impose stringent emissions standards surpassing federal guidelines. While President Joe Biden reinstated these waivers in 2022, they had previously been rescinded in Trump’s first term. As of now, Trump has not attempted to revoke the waivers once more. Despite Republican efforts to nullify California’s standards using the Congressional Review Act, legal findings by the U.S. Government Accountability Office contend that this method is impermissible.

    States comprising approximately 11% of the national car market, including several aligning with California’s vehicle emissions initiative, have significant influence over industry trends. The federal government’s decision to oppose the state’s restriction on gas-powered cars gained backing from influential entities like the National Automobile Dealers Association and the American Trucking Associations. Representatives from these industries argued that major policy decisions should fall under federal jurisdiction rather than state discretion, citing concerns over feasibility and broad impact.

    General Motors, a major player in the automotive industry, approved of the federal government’s action, asserting it aligns emissions standards with market realities. The company’s statement underscored the need for a uniform national standard to maintain competitive standing and foster innovation in a diverse vehicle market.

    Conversely, environmental advocates voiced sharp criticism. Dan Becker, associated with the Center for Biological Diversity, lambasted the expected signing, labeling it a betrayal of democratic principles and a capitulation to corporate interests detrimental to public health and economic wellbeing. As the debate continues, California remains poised to contest federal interventions legally.