Yuba-Sutter Times

Yesterday, the House Energy and Commerce Committee, along with key members of the California Western Caucus, introduced three Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolutions. These resolutions are intended to overturn the Biden administration's approval of California's vehicle emissions mandates, which include the Advanced Clean Cars II regulation, the Advanced Clean Trucks regulation, and the Omnibus Low-NOx Emissions rule. These mandates were previously sanctioned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The rules allow California to enforce stringent regulations on cars and trucks that potentially lead to increased costs and limit consumer options both in the state and nationwide.

The three CRAs were co-led by Congressman Doug LaMalfa and introduced by Representatives John Joyce, John James, and Jay Obernolte. "California’s sweeping and unachievable emissions mandates are a direct assault on everyone who lives, works, or does business in our state," said Rep. LaMalfa. He emphasized the financial impact, stating, "These regulations drive up costs and limit consumer choice, forcing trucking and automotive industries into an impossible transition timeline."

House Energy and Commerce Chairman Guthrie remarked, "The American people should choose what vehicle is right for them, not California bureaucrats. By submitting the three California waivers to Congress, Administrator Zeldin is ensuring that Congress has oversight of these major rules that impact every American."

The debate centers on the unique exemption California holds under Section 209 of the Clean Air Act, allowing the state to set its own emissions standards, provided the EPA approves a waiver. Other states can adopt these standards under Section 177, with approximately a dozen states currently following California's policies. This adoption effectively turns California's regulations into a national standard.

The Biden administration's approval of several waivers requested by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has allowed the state to implement emissions rules affecting vehicle costs and availability in the U.S. The Advanced Clean Cars II mandates that by 2026, 35% of new car sales must be zero-emission, increasing to 100% by 2035. The Advanced Clean Trucks regulation enforces zero-emission quotas for truck sales by 2035. The Omnibus Low-NOx Emissions rule imposes substantial emissions reductions on medium and heavy-duty trucks.

Congressman Doug LaMalfa, serving as Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus, represents California's First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama, and Yuba Counties.