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Dispute over California's emissions rule |
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A new bill that would block California and 11 other states from regulating vehicle greenhouse gas emissions is standing firm opposition from U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the state of California and several environmental groups.
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2007-06-06
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The energy bill, introduced by Republican Rick Boucher, would increase federal fuel efficiency standards to 36 miles per gallon (mpg) for passenger cars by 2021 but block any state from setting more stringent standards. If enacted, it would prohibit the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from issuing a waiver to any state wanting to propose legislation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
As a result, the Boucher proposal would put to a halt the efforts of California and 11 other states to implement more stringent greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) rules than federal ones to require from the automotive industry a 25% emissions cut for passenger cars and light trucks over the next nine years.
California moving ahead with waiver request
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During an EPA public hearing on 30 May, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) presented arguments to back up its request for a waiver under the Clean Air Act that is necessary to implement AB 1493,the GHG emissions standard in question. In its presentation the state underlined that it would address all vehicle GHG sources, including emissions from air conditioners, and stressed the necessity to achieve the reduction targets with already available technology.
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Boucher's proposal prohibiting the EPA to grant the waiver drew angry opposition from California legislators and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's administration.
Reactions
"Congress should not trample on California's efforts to reduce greenhouse gases," California State Speaker Fabian Nuņez stated on Tuesday before House Speaker Nancy Pelosi added that "any proposal that affects California's landmark efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions or eliminates the EPA's authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions will not have my support."
Frank O'Donnell, president of Clean Air Watch, was also critical: "This is a direct attack on California and its regulations. It also negates the recent Supreme Court decision that allows the regulation of greenhouse gases from vehicles."
Next steps
Boucher's energy is scheduled for discussion during a hearing on Thursday, 7 June.
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More information:
 Discussion Draft Rick Boucher, 1 June 2007 (127 KB)
CARB Presentation, Public Hearing, 22 / 30 May 2007 (2.16 MB)
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