The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a challenge by fuel producers against California’s vehicle emissions standards and electric vehicle regulations, under the Clean Air Act. The case will test California’s authority to tackle greenhouse gases, particularly in the context of the Biden administration’s support for the state’s regulations.
The dispute centers on a waiver granted to California by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2022, allowing the state to set stricter vehicle emissions standards than those mandated by the federal government. While states are generally prohibited from enacting their own emissions limits, the EPA can waive this rule, a provision California has used for over 75 years. This waiver enables California to enforce stronger pollution controls and promote electric vehicle adoption.
Valero Energy’s subsidiary, Diamond Alternative Energy, and other fuel industry groups challenged the EPA’s decision, claiming it exceeded the agency’s authority and harmed their business by reducing demand for fossil fuels. The D.C. Circuit Court dismissed the lawsuits, stating that the groups lacked legal standing.
In appealing to the Supreme Court, the fuel producers argue that California is acting beyond its authority, invoking the “major questions” doctrine to challenge the EPA’s power. The court, which has a 6-3 conservative majority, has shown skepticism toward broad regulatory powers in recent years, limiting the EPA’s authority in cases involving air pollution and emissions controls. This case could have significant implications for the future of environmental regulation in the U.S.
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