EPA’s Climate Rollback Threatens Decades of Automotive Pollution Rules
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is at the centre of a significant regulatory shift regarding automotive pollution and climate change. The agency is considering rolling back the 2009 endangerment finding that grants it authority to regulate greenhouse gases. This move is closely tied to its pollution regulations and has sparked concern among states and the auto industry.
The proposed rollback relies on a report penned by climate contrarians, handpicked by Energy Secretary Chris Wright. EPA held a public hearing and is currently reviewing comments on this proposal. The Trump administration initially sought to repeal the 2009 endangerment finding, which could significantly impact the EPA's regulatory powers.
In 2021, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) played a significant role in these developments. It finalized the repeal of Part I of the SAFE Vehicles Rule, arguing that the EPA lacked authority to dictate the scope of preemption under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA). The OMB urged the EPA to reconsider and replace emission standards for criteria pollutants for cars and trucks, effectively pushing for their weakening or alteration. Moreover, the OMB suggested that promoting electric vehicles could lead to more pollution by forcing people to keep driving older cars. However, the EPA has resisted these suggestions regarding other vehicular pollutants.
The EPA's proposed rollback of climate regulations is a complex issue with far-reaching implications. While some parties express concern, the EPA continues to review public comments and consider the best course of action. The final decision will significantly impact automotive pollution regulations and the agency's role in combating climate change.
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