Trump Revokes California EV Waivers

In a high-profile White House signing ceremony on June 12, former President Donald Trump reversed a Biden-era policy that allowed California to set stricter emissions standards for vehicles. The move effectively blocks the state’s ability to enforce rules requiring zero-emission commercial trucks and higher standards for diesel engines.

Trump, joined by freight and trucking leaders, criticized California’s regulations as an electric vehicle “mandate” that hurt consumers and businesses. “They’re making you buy stuff that doesn’t work,” he said, advocating for consumer choice between electric, gasoline, and hybrid vehicles.

The rollback, made possible through the Congressional Review Act, followed resolutions passed by Congress in May. Supporters, including the American Trucking Associations, hailed the decision as a win for economic stability and supply chain reliability. ATA President Chris Spear said, “This is not the United States of California.”

Critics, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, warned the move sets a dangerous precedent and promised legal action. California Air Resources Board Chair Liane Randolph vowed to fight the rollback, calling it “an attack on clean air.”

Industry representatives stressed that long EV charging times and limited range pose challenges for freight delivery. Source: https://www.ttnews.com