California electric vehicle ‘mandate’ under threat by House GOP Trump allies
House Republicans are taking action to block a key decision made by the Biden administration before leaving office. A resolution of disapproval has been introduced by Rep. John Joyce, R-Pa., targeting a waiver granted to California that would ultimately lead to a ban on the sale of new gas cars in the state by 2035. This move has been described as a “de facto EV mandate” for California by committee Chairman Brett Guthrie, R-Ky.
The resolution aims to give American consumers the freedom to choose the vehicles that best suit their needs, instead of being dictated by California’s environmental regulations. Joyce emphasized that protecting consumer freedom and allowing families to select vehicles based on their preferences and budget is crucial. The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act to oppose unilateral rules set by federal agencies.
In December 2024, Biden’s EPA approved a waiver for California, enabling the state to phase out gas-powered car sales by 2035. This decision has faced opposition from major automakers due to concerns about the feasibility of California’s ambitious goals. Despite the Biden administration’s argument that the waiver was not subject to congressional review, the Trump administration initiated efforts to review and potentially repeal the waiver earlier this year.
While the GAO stated that California’s waiver is not subject to the Congressional Review Act, supporters of the Trump administration’s stance believe that Congress should have the final say in reviewing agency rules. Joyce’s resolution, with the support of the House Energy & Commerce Committee, signifies the first step in challenging the Biden administration’s decision. Given the committee’s influence, the legislation is expected to garner significant Republican backing.
This development highlights the ongoing debate surrounding environmental policies and states’ rights versus federal regulations. As the resolution progresses, it will be interesting to see how lawmakers navigate the balance between environmental initiatives and consumer choice in the automotive industry.
