California's Emissions Waivers Survive Federal EV Mandate Repeal

The Trump administration repealed the federal vehicle emissions rule that had required automakers to meet greenhouse‑gas targets, framing it as a major deregulatory effort. However, four federal waivers that let California enforce stricter emissions standards remain in place. Those waivers allow California – and the 17 other states and the District of Columbia that have adopted its rules – to cover roughly 40% of the U.S. new‑vehicle market.

California has sued, arguing the waivers cannot be repealed under the Congressional Review Act, while congressional Republicans contend they can. The legal fight will determine whether the state’s authority to require higher sales of electric vehicles and tighter tailpipe limits endures, a decision that could force automakers to continue producing separate vehicle lines for different U.S. regions.