Trump’s return may derail California clean air rules
A Trump victory has put key California clean air regulations at risk, including a ban on new gasoline car sales by 2035, as the state awaits U.S. Environmental Protection Agency waivers that the Biden administration hasn’t approved.
Tony Briscoe reports for Los Angeles Times.
In short:
- California’s clean air rules, including bans on new gas-powered cars and diesel trucks at ports, await EPA waivers that may be rejected by Trump’s administration.
- Many regulations, such as the ban on gas-powered yard equipment, are estimated to prevent thousands of premature deaths and save billions in health costs.
- Uncertainty around EPA waivers has led businesses to delay compliance efforts, waiting for regulatory clarity.
Key quote:
“Everyone deserves clean air and everyone deserves the benefits that these programs will deliver.”
— Will Barrett, American Lung Association
Why this matters:
California’s clean air initiatives aim to significantly cut emissions, improving public health and reducing pollution. A federal block could delay these benefits, impacting other states that rely on California’s environmental standards for stricter air quality policies.
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