Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton joined six other States, led by Ohio, in supporting the federal government’s decision to deny California the authority to set greenhouse-gas and zero-emissions-vehicles standards that effectively apply nationwide.
The Clean Air Act generally prohibits States and political subdivisions from enforcing “any standard relating to the control of emissions from new motor vehicles.” For years, California has received waivers from the federal government that allow it to set its own emission standards. The effect of the waivers is that if a car manufacturer wants to sell cars in California, it must build the vehicle to California-standards, regardless of where that vehicle ultimately goes on sale.
“The Clean Air Act was designed to foster cooperation between States and the federal government as we take steps to ensure our communities breathe clean, healthy air. No single State has the authority to create standards and regulations for other States, and the idea that California can legislate for the entire country clearly undermines state sovereignty,” said Attorney General Paxton. “When it comes to legislation that affects all States, those States must have a voice.”
By intervening to block California’s special status to limit and regulate emissions, the Ohio and Texas coalition aims to restore the equal status of all States, lower vehicles prices, improve the variety of vehicles on the market, and preserve jobs tied to vehicle manufacturing.
Along with Texas, States participating in this motion to intervene include Ohio, Alabama, Alaska, Louisiana, Utah and West Virginia.
To view a copy of the motion to intervene, click here.