LOS ANGELES (KNX) — California is calling the shots again when it comes to the state’s auto pollution laws, which has been a model for other states.
On Wednesday, the Biden administration reinstated California’s Clean Air Act waiver, allowing the state to set motor vehicle pollution standards stricter than the federal government’s.
California has been a leader in tighter restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions, but the state’s efforts were stifled by the Trump administration, which attempted to block the Golden State from using its market power to influence the auto industry to go green.
“I thank the Biden Administration for righting the reckless wrongs of the Trump Administration and recognizing our decades-old authority to protect Californians and our planet,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement.
“The restoration of our state's Clean Air Act waiver is a major victory for the environment, our economy, and the health of families across the country that comes at a pivotal moment underscoring the need to end our reliance on fossil fuels. California looks forward to partnering with the Biden Administration to make a zero-emission future a reality for all Americans.”
Newsom said California will continue to set the pace with innovative policies and partnerships with states that have “chosen to adopt its pioneering standards and move us away from fossil fuels.”
Newsom also boasted investments to accelerate the state’s zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) goals, including the California Blueprint’s proposed $10 billion ZEV package, which touts job creation among other benefits.
“Together with the $5 billion investment in ZEV charging from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, these historic investments will help make ZEVs more affordable and convenient for all Californians, while building out clean transportation infrastructure and charging stations, especially in low-income communities,” Newsom said.
Attorney General Rob Bonta said the Biden Adminsitration’s decision to require the reductions is a victory for Californians, the U.S., and the planet.
“Today’s announcement by the Biden Administration reaffirming California’s authority to require significant reductions in harmful emissions from new motor vehicles is a victory for Californians, a victory for the nation, and a victory for the planet,” Attorney General Bonta said.
“Right now, we are standing on the edge of a cliff, and every day that we don't act, we come a little bit closer to falling over the edge. If we're going to tackle the climate crisis, we're all going to have to do our part. And California's standards — which have been adopted by 15 states and counting — are some of the best tools we have to reduce emissions, drive technological innovation, and protect public health.”
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