California Possibly Obtaining Freer Rein to Curb Vehicle Emissions

California could resume its role as a national leader reducing vehicle emissions as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Biden administration prepares to issue a waiver. This action would allow California to establish its own emission levels and electric vehicle mandates, an authority that was curtailed under the previous administration. Under the Clean Air Act, California has special treatment to set air pollution policies that are tougher than those of the federal government. More than a dozen other states, a third of the U.S. vehicle market, have chosen to adhere to California’s emission limits. A reinstated waiver may result in more stringent fuel economy standards and more widespread and aggressive zero-emission vehicle mandates.