Trump Blocks California Gas Car Ban, Reasserts Consumer Choice in Vehicle Market
Former President Donald Trump has signed three congressional resolutions overturning California’s authority to set stricter vehicle emissions rules—effectively halting the state’s planned 2035 ban on gas-powered vehicles. The move reasserts federal control over auto regulations and reinforces consumer choice in the U.S. vehicle market.
These resolutions dismantle Biden-era Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) waivers that allowed California to impose aggressive zero-emission mandates on both passenger cars and heavy-duty trucks. California’s rules had the potential to become a national standard, as more than a dozen states historically follow its lead.
Key Points of the Resolutions:
- Blocks California’s 2035 Gas Car Ban: Revokes the EPA waiver that would have required 80–100% of new cars sold in the state to be electric or plug-in hybrids by 2035.
- Ends Diesel Truck Phase-Out: Stops California’s authority to mandate zero-emission trucks, preserving diesel-powered medium- and heavy-duty vehicles.
- Nullifies Low NOₓ Truck Emissions Rule: Overturns California’s strict nitrogen oxide limits for heavy-duty highway and off-road trucks.
Backed by top administration officials including Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, the repeal ensures no single state can unilaterally dictate national vehicle standards.
“Under the previous administration, the federal government gave left-wing radicals in California dictatorial powers to control the future of the entire car industry,” Trump said at the White House signing. “I’m all for electric—you should have the option. But the choice must be yours.”
Consumer Choice Restored
The move has been widely praised by the auto industry and consumer advocates. The National Automobile Dealers Association said, “Franchised dealers applaud President Trump for stopping California regulators from banning gas and diesel vehicle sales. Without this action, prices would have risen, and consumer choice would have been limited.”
Supporters argue the legislation aligns with what most Americans want: affordable options, not government-imposed mandates. While electric vehicle (EV) adoption is growing, gas-powered and hybrid vehicles remain the top choice for many drivers.
Legal Battle Looms
California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta quickly filed a lawsuit challenging the legality of using the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to overturn the EPA’s waiver. However, reversing a CRA resolution is difficult. Once enacted, the targeted rule is permanently nullified, and similar future rules require new congressional approval.
California has responded with a new executive order affirming its climate goals, but legal experts say the state faces an uphill battle in court.
Impact on the Auto Industry
Manufacturers and dealers say this federal action eliminates regulatory confusion. “We’ve been caught between conflicting state and federal mandates,” one auto executive said. “This provides clarity and lets us meet consumer demand more effectively.”
The repeal is also seen as a rejection of what some critics call environmental overreach. “This was never about clean air—it was about control,” one industry analyst noted. “Now, the balance has shifted back to the consumer.”
What This Means for Drivers
With these changes, drivers regain the freedom to choose between electric, gas, diesel, or hybrid vehicles without state-level bans or mandates. Trump’s action is a direct response to growing public concern over rising vehicle prices and reduced choice.
The Bottom Line
Trump’s move marks a major turning point in U.S. automotive policy. It reinforces national standards, limits the regulatory power of individual states, and champions driver freedom. While legal challenges may follow, the decision stands as a firm statement: vehicle choice belongs to the people—not to state bureaucrats.
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