American energy leaders celebrate Trump ending California’s EV requirements

President Donald Trump made a significant move by signing three resolutions that effectively put an end to California’s restrictive rules on diesel engines and mandates on electric vehicle sales. Trump celebrated this action by declaring that his signature would “kill the California mandates forever.”

During a speech at the White House before signing the resolutions, Trump criticized the previous administration for granting California the authority to control the future of the car industry across the country. He specifically targeted Governor Gavin Newsom’s plan to ban the sale of gasoline-only vehicles by 2035, labeling it as “ridiculous” and highlighting the state’s electricity shortages amidst blackouts and brownouts.

The resolutions that Trump signed work to overturn California’s plan to phase out gasoline vehicles by 2035, including a waiver issued by the Biden-era EPA that required 80% of vehicles in California to be electric by 2035. Additionally, the resolutions put an end to California’s low-nitrogen oxide regulations for heavy-duty vehicles and off-road vehicles.

The bill-signing event was attended by Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, EPA chief Lee Zeldin, and other Republican and administration leaders. Trump emphasized that these resolutions were signed under the Congressional Review Act, making them permanent and immune to legal challenges.

Governor Newsom, a staunch supporter of California’s EV mandates, had previously championed the state’s efforts to lead the nation towards a future less reliant on oil and gas. However, Trump criticized Newsom during the event, referencing the ongoing riots in Los Angeles and wildfires that have plagued the state.

Trump highlighted the influence of California’s regulations on 17 other states that follow its standards, noting the need to protect American jobs from being outsourced to countries like China. Industry leaders and associations, including the American Trucking Association and the American Petroleum Institute, lauded Trump’s actions as a victory for American consumers and energy security.

The signing of these resolutions is part of Trump’s broader agenda to unleash American energy and revitalize the coal industry while promoting oil and gas development. The move aligns with his campaign promise to make the U.S. energy independent by cutting red tape and regulations.

In response to the resolutions, General Motors expressed support for a national standard that allows for competition, innovation, and customer choice in the vehicle market. Trump’s actions aim to ensure a level playing field for automakers and create a more robust and diverse lineup of gas-powered and electric vehicles.

Overall, Trump’s decisions to overturn California’s mandates signal a shift towards a more balanced and competitive automotive market, prioritizing American jobs and energy security. The resolutions reflect a commitment to unleashing the full potential of the U.S. energy sector and fostering innovation in the transportation industry.