Congress moves to block California's stricter vehicle pollution rules
S.J.Res. 45 — A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "California State Motor Vehicle and Engine Pollution Control Standards; Advanced Clean Cars II; Waiver of Preemption; Notice of Decision". · Filed by Shelley Capito (R-WV) · 31 cosponsors · Introduced Apr 4, 2025 · Referred to committee
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What it does
This resolution uses the Congressional Review Act to block an EPA decision that allowed California to set its own vehicle pollution standards stricter than federal rules. The rule, finalized in January 2025, granted California a waiver to enforce Advanced Clean Cars II standards (requiring more zero-emission vehicles). If passed, the resolution would nullify that waiver, preventing California from enforcing stricter pollution controls and reverting to federal standards.
Why we flagged it
This is a straightforward Congressional Review Act disapproval resolution targeting an EPA environmental rule. It uses the CRA's expedited process to block a regulatory action without amendment or debate, effectively deregulating vehicle pollution standards by restoring federal preemption over state authority.
What the text implies
- If passed, this resolution would trigger the CRA's 'same rule' prohibition, preventing EPA from issuing a substantially similar rule without new congressional authorization—effectively locking in federal preemption for vehicle pollution standards.
- The resolution targets only the waiver decision, not the underlying Advanced Clean Cars II rule itself, meaning the federal standard remains in place but California cannot exceed it.
The full analysis lists 4 implications of this text.
Who stands to gain
automotive manufacturers; fossil fuel producers; oil and gas refineries