California’s decision to ban gasoline vehicle sales by 2035 sets the stage for a new chapter in environmental policy and a battle over state-federal relations.
At a Glance
- The Biden administration granted California the right to ban new gasoline car sales by 2035.
- The EPA approved CARB’s Advanced Clean Cars II mandate.
- Legal challenges are anticipated with possibilities of a future administration revoking California’s waiver.
- California’s policy may influence national and global environmental strategies.
California’s Ambitious Commitment
In a groundbreaking move, the Biden administration has granted California, along with 11 other states, the authority to ban the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035. This decision stems from California’s long-standing commitment to environmental regulation, exemplified by its ambitious Advanced Clean Cars II Regulations announced by the California Air Resources Board. This initiative mandates a phased increase in zero-emission vehicles, aiming for 100% by 2035.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved this regulatory framework, marking an essential step in California’s clean air efforts. The EPA’s thumbs up is considered instrumental in safeguarding California’s auto regulations from future reversals, potentially paving the way for other states to adopt similar measures as part of a more extensive national clean car agenda.
The Environmental Protection Agency has granted two requests from California to enforce strict standards for vehicle emissions, including a rule aimed at banning sales of new gasoline-powered cars in the state by 2035. https://t.co/vmjV2uK6iZ
— The Press Democrat (@NorthBayNews) December 18, 2024
Tensions with Federal Policies
Despite this federal approval, a battle between state-federal relations is on the horizon. While the Clean Air Act enables California to request waivers to implement more stringent environmental laws, they could also lead to legal disputes with Washington, especially under future administrations less sympathetic to California’s environmental goals.
Conflict is highly anticipated with incoming President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. During his previous term, Trump questioned California’s car regulations, which he labeled “ridiculous,” and vowed to eliminate them. “California has imposed the most ridiculous car regulations anywhere in the world, with mandates to move to all electric cars,” said Trump.
National Implications
California’s substantial economy and population give it considerable influence over national vehicle regulations. Under the Clean Air Act, the state can request waivers to establish more stringent emissions standards to protect residents from air pollution. Seventeen states have adopted California’s low-emission and zero-emission vehicle regulations to varying degrees.
Federal intervention or a shift in policies could redefine how future environmental regulations are set and challenged nationwide. As California pushes back, a showdown over states’ rights and federal powers is brewing that could significantly shape the landscape of U.S. environmental politics.
