A U.S. appeals court has upheld California’s authority to establish its own tailpipe emissions standards and electric vehicle mandates. The ruling dismissed a legal challenge brought by 17 Republican-led states and entities associated with liquid fuel production.
This challenge was aimed at contesting the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2022 decision, made under President Joe Biden, to restore California’s autonomy in setting emissions limits and electric vehicle requirements, which had been revoked by the Trump administration in 2019.
Governor Gavin Newsom hailed the court’s decision as a victory for public health and common sense, emphasizing California’s enduring commitment to combatting vehicle pollution.
The court rejected arguments from Republicans that the rules unfairly favored California and violated constitutional principles by granting the state regulatory powers not extended to others.
The court also dismissed concerns that allowing California to maintain its regulations would lead to adverse effects on the automotive industry or consumers.
It found no evidence to support claims that automakers would reduce electric vehicle production or lower gas-powered vehicle prices in response to the regulations.
California’s pursuit of stricter emissions standards and promotion of electric vehicles has long been a cornerstone of its environmental policy.
The California Air Resources Board approved a groundbreaking plan in 2022 to phase out gasoline-only vehicles by 2035 and increase zero-emission vehicle requirements in the following years.
While the EPA recently finalized emissions limits through 2032, with revised targets for plug-in and electric vehicle sales, there remains contention over the future of these regulations.
Former President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn them if he returns to office, highlighting the ongoing debate over environmental policy and regulatory authority at both the state and federal levels.
