Congress has passed a resolution eliminating California’s authority to set vehicle standards stricter than those set by the federal government.
On May 22, 2025, the U.S. Senate voted 51–44 to revoke California’s Clean Air Act waivers, which had allowed the state to enforce stricter vehicle emissions standards, including a mandate for all new cars sold to be electric by 2035. This decision, backed by the administration, also nullified California’s regulations on heavy-duty truck emissions and nitrogen oxide levels. In response, California Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced plans to sue the federal government, arguing that the move undermines environmental protections and states’ rights. Despite findings by both the Senate parliamentarian and the Government Accountability Office that a resolution would not comply with the Congressional Review Act, the Senate utilized the CRA to bypass traditional procedures, a tactic criticized by environmental advocates as setting a dangerous precedent. California, representing 11% of the U.S. car market, has historically influenced national vehicle standards, with several states adopting its stricter regulations.
For Maryland and other states that follow the California standards, this rebuke of state authority could complicate reaching each states’ climate goals. The final outcome will also significantly impact counties as this shift could affect local environmental initiatives, infrastructure planning, and economic strategies related to the transition to electric vehicles.