Republicans Roll Back Outrageous Biden-Era Green Regulations
This month, I joined my fellow U.S. Senate Republicans to block an underhanded Democrat attempt to radically reshape the auto industry. We thwarted a Biden-era “green” regulation that would have effectively eliminated the domestic use of internal combustion engines by 2035, forcing Mississippians to adopt electric vehicles (EVs) whether they liked it or not.
The regulation, masquerading under a different name, was a clear attempt by Democrats to circumvent Congressional oversight. If successful, it would have given California disproportionate influence over the national auto industry, given its population of nearly 40 million and over 10% market share. California’s example has already led other states to follow its lead in setting EV sales quotas, which would have ultimately harmed Mississippi’s three million residents.
Aside from the fact that most Americans are not ready to switch to EVs, the auto industry is simply not equipped to handle such extreme mandates. Forcing manufacturers to escalate EV production would lead to a cascade of environmental problems. EVs are often 30% heavier than gas-powered cars, increasing the danger in accidents and wear-and-tear on tires and roads due to their heavy batteries packed with toxic chemicals.
Moreover, the economics of such a shift are unfavorable. Electric vehicles are already expensive, and ramping up production would likely cause automakers to raise prices on gas-powered cars and trucks. This, in turn, would increase demand in the used car market, driving up prices for pre-owned vehicles.
The Biden administration’s EPA approved California’s Green New Deal vision after the November election, perhaps understanding its unpopularity. Demand for EVs is already falling in California, and several auto companies have been granted exceptions, indicating that both parties recognize the quotas are unrealistic. Other states, like New York and Vermont, are also wavering in their adoption of the California plan.
This episode highlights the stark differences between Democrat and Republican priorities. While left-wing officials seem willing to sacrifice American pocketbooks for the sake of a green energy agenda, conservatives trust in the fundamentals of the marketplace. We have already passed over a dozen measures this year to invalidate misguided Biden-era regulations, and our action to overturn the California mandate is now on President Trump’s desk, awaiting his signature.
Republicans in Washington will continue to work to empower businesses that employ Americans, provide customers with options, and keep the United States on the leading edge of the global economy.
