California’s Gas Car Ban Faces Congressional Challenge

Categories: California Breaking NewsCalifornia News

Electric vehicles driving through the scenic hills of California, representing the shift from gas-powered cars.

News Summary

Congress is poised to vote on legislation that could block California’s plan to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. With California accounting for about 11% of the U.S. car market, its regulations could shift national purchasing trends. This legislative action arises as California fights for stricter emissions standards amidst concerns over air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Governor Gavin Newsom has indicated that the state is prepared to take legal action if Congress interferes with its authority to regulate emissions. Several states and automakers are closely watching the outcome of this legislative battle.

California is facing potential legislative action from Congress that could block its plan to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. A Senate vote is expected as early as this week to halt California’s ambitious initiatives aimed at ramping up electric vehicle (EV) adoption in the state. The proposed ban, which would transform California’s automotive landscape, is part of broader efforts to combat severe air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions that arise from vehicles.

With California representing approximately 11% of the U.S. car market, its regulations could influence purchasing trends nationwide. Vehicles are significant contributors to planet-warming emissions, making this legislative standoff crucial not only for California but also for environmental policies throughout the country. The Republican-controlled Congress is focusing on challenging three waivers granted to California that allow the state to enforce stricter emissions standards than those specified by federal guidelines.

The push to block these regulations follows a recent vote in the House aimed at undermining California’s authority to set its emissions rules. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has argued that California’s regulations unnecessarily extend the authority of the Clean Air Act and could have adverse effects on consumers, the economy, and energy supplies. California Governor Gavin Newsom and state regulators have indicated that they view this congressional action as illegal and are prepared to initiate legal proceedings if it progresses.

For decades, California has worked to control air pollution, beginning its emissions regulations in the 1960s and 1970s with a focus on smog reduction. Previous measures to protect these regulations were lost during the Trump administration but were restored in 2022 under President Biden. The gas car ban was originally announced by Newsom in 2020, formalized in 2022, and received federal approval last year. The regulations demand automakers to gradually increase sales of zero-emission vehicles to 43% by 2027, 68% by 2030, and reach a complete transition to zero-emission vehicles by 2035.

Under these regulations, while the sale of new gas-powered vehicles would be eliminated, consumers can still purchase used gas cars, as well as plug-in hybrids and hydrogen-powered vehicles. Additional regulations further aim to phase out new medium- and heavy-duty diesel vehicles, mandating that zero-emission trucks make up 40-75% of truck sales by 2035. Additionally, stricter emissions compliance tests for trucks will be implemented to address ongoing air pollution issues.

California’s aggressive regulations have prompted several states, including New York and Colorado, to consider aligning with its standards. Some major automakers, such as Honda, Ford, and Volkswagen, have committed to adhere to California’s emissions standards but remain cautious about the viability of the 2035 ban if it is blocked. Support for the Senate measure has been expressed by the National Automobile Dealers Association, claiming that uniform regulations for the entire nation are necessary.

Concerns have emerged regarding California’s capability to support the expected increase in electric vehicle demand, particularly in light of the state’s current power grid vulnerabilities, which have experienced strain during past heat waves. The Newsom administration claims to be working on expanding electric grid capacity and infrastructure to accommodate this growing demand. California aims for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045 but currently lacks sufficient infrastructure to support this ambitious goal, with approximately 84,000 public EV chargers available and a target of 1.2 million by 2030.

Recent action from the Trump administration instructed states to pause funding for EV infrastructure initiatives that were launched under Biden. Eleven states, including Washington D.C., have adopted California’s target to phase out new gas cars, though some states are reassessing their commitments. For instance, Vermont’s governor has halted enforcement of electric vehicle sales targets, and Delaware is seeking to retract its EV mandate. Congressional Republicans, including John Thune, are stressing concerns about the potential overload of California’s electric grid as a result of the proposed emissions standards.

If Congress successfully blocks California’s regulations, the state will need to seek alternative pathways for reducing emissions and advancing its environmental goals. Experts have noted that while many areas might technically meet electric vehicle charging demands, localized infrastructure challenges could hinder the overall implementation of these initiatives.