So, like, the U.S. Senate just totally voted today to block California’s plan to phase out gas-powered cars, which is a major setback for the state’s goal of transitioning to electric vehicles. This decision to revoke some waivers granted by the Biden administration could seriously mess up California’s efforts to clean up its air pollution and reduce greenhouse gases.
California is all set to file a lawsuit, claiming that this whole situation is just not cool and goes against some act that allows Congress to review certain regulations from the previous administration. Democrats in the Senate, like Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff from California, are all about keeping the electric car mandate to help clean up the air, while Republicans are saying it’s too expensive and restrictive for consumers and businesses.
The fight is on between California and the Trump administration, with Gov. Gavin Newsom leading the charge in defending the state’s zero-emission vehicle goals. But with the Senate and House blocking California’s mandates, it looks like the state might have to rely on some voluntary efforts to meet federal health standards for air quality. Not really sure why this matters, but it seems like we’re in for a bumpy ride when it comes to cleaning up California’s air pollution.
