Lawmakers propose bill against EPA’s strict carbon emission rules for gas cars.
Idaho and Nebraska Lawmakers Introduce Legislation to Counter Biden’s Carbon-Emission Restrictions
Lawmakers in Idaho and Nebraska have taken a stand against the Biden administration’s costly carbon-emission restrictions on gasoline-powered cars set to begin in 2027. Senators Mike Crapo and Pete Ricketts have proposed the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act to combat what they call a “radical environmental agenda and executive overreach.”
“The Biden Administration is once again using its rule-making process to push a radical green agenda and pick winners and losers,” stated Mr. Crapo. “Americans deserve access to affordable, reliable vehicles fueled by American-made energy products.”
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In April, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced new federal emission standards aimed at improving air quality nationwide. The proposed rule, titled “Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Year 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles,” sets strict regulations for gas-powered cars.
The EPA’s proposed standards are the most aggressive ever and effectively mandate mass production of electric vehicles (EVs),” said Mr. Crapo. “If finalized, the EPA projects that over two-thirds of all new vehicles could be electric by 2032.”
One of the main concerns raised is the affordability of EVs for most Americans, as they cost an average of $17,000 more than gas-powered vehicles, according to data from Kelley Blue Book. Mr. Crapo added, “The Administration’s push for EVs threatens everyday Americans and jeopardizes auto workers’ jobs, all while benefiting China, which dominates the EV supply chain.”
The CARS Act aims to prevent the EPA from finalizing its proposed standards and limit the authority granted under the Clean Air Act to issue mandates on specific vehicle technologies or restrict the availability of new motor vehicles based on engine type.
EPA Claims Health Benefits
The EPA argues that the proposed standards would improve air quality, particularly in communities heavily affected by pollution. According to the EPA, these proposals would reduce CO2 emissions by nearly 10 billion tons, equivalent to more than twice the total US emissions in 2022. Additionally, they would save thousands of dollars over the lifespan of compliant vehicles and reduce America’s reliance on approximately 20 billion barrels of oil imports.
The EPA’s proposed standards for light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles starting in 2027 will utilize various emission control technologies to reduce carbon emissions from gasoline-powered vehicles. The EPA also projects that these standards will accelerate the transition to EVs, with EVs potentially accounting for 67% of new light-duty vehicle sales and 46% of new medium-duty vehicle sales by 2032.
‘Oppressive and Careless’
Senator Crapo believes that these changes will only increase economic pressure on Americans while benefiting China. EVs rely on rare earth minerals, primarily sourced from China. Critics argue that the Biden administration’s green policies will undermine America’s energy independence and burden its economy.
Senator Ricketts describes the proposed standards as prioritizing a “radical left agenda” over affordable and reliable internal combustion engines. Senator Shelly Moore Capito adds that the government should not dictate the types of vehicles consumers can drive.
Chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Senator Joe Manchin, calls the EPA’s proposed standards ”oppressive and careless.” He echoes concerns about increased dependence on China and emphasizes the need to protect access to traditional, affordable vehicles.
How does the Hnologies legislation ensure that consumer choice is protected in the automotive industry?
Hnologies. The legislation would ensure that consumer choice is protected and that automakers are not forced to produce a certain percentage of electric vehicles.
Senator Ricketts emphasized the importance of allowing the market to dictate consumer preferences. “The government should not be in the business of picking winners and losers when it comes to automobile technology,” he said. “Consumers should have the freedom to choose the vehicles that best meet their needs and desires, whether that be electric, hybrid, or gasoline-powered.”
Supporters of the CARS Act argue that the Biden administration’s carbon-emission restrictions disproportionately impact rural communities and lower-income Americans. Many rural areas lack the infrastructure, such as charging stations, needed to support a widespread transition to electric vehicles. Additionally, EVs may not be a feasible option for individuals who do not have access to a personal garage or who rely on long-distance driving.
Critics of the legislation argue that it undermines efforts to combat climate change and transition to cleaner energy sources. They argue that electric vehicles are a crucial part of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality.
The battle over the CARS Act is just one example of the ongoing debate surrounding environmental regulations and climate change policies. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are grappling with how to balance economic concerns with the need to address the urgent threat of climate change.
As the legislation moves forward, it will face significant challenges in Congress. The outcome will have far-reaching implications for the future of the automotive industry and the United States’ efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
Whether the CARS Act succeeds or not, one thing is clear: the issue of carbon emissions and environmental regulations will continue to be a hot-button topic in American politics. The Biden administration’s ambitious climate agenda is likely to face significant pushback from lawmakers who prioritize economic growth and individual freedoms.
Only time will tell how this legislative battle unfolds and what impact it will have on the future of transportation and environmental policy in the United States.
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