US government sues Californian air quality regulator
The administration of US President Donald Trump is increasing pressure on California by taking legal action against the California Air Resources Board. The lawsuit aims to prevent the state from enforcing its emissions standards, which are stricter than nationwide regulations. The US government argues that California is not authorised to set its own standards. “Oppressive, expensive electric vehicle mandates drive up costs for American consumers and violate federal law,” stated Attorney General Pam Bondi in a press release. Trump has also repeatedly criticised California’s high petrol prices – the highest in the nation – which are largely attributed to taxes and environmental regulations.Background: California, governed by Democrats, has frequently clashed with the federal policies introduced under President Donald Trump. The state has long imposed stricter emissions regulations than those mandated by the national government, achieving one of the highest electric vehicle (EV) adoption rates in the US. However, California’s independent approach has been a persistent irritant for Trump. Last summer, his administration blocked California’s ban on new internal combustion engine vehicles from 2035, as well as regulations limiting emissions from certain cars and nitrogen oxide emissions from trucks in the state.California’s Governor Gavin Newsom, however, pushed back. On one hand, his state, along with ten other US states, filed lawsuits against Trump’s decisions; on the other, the California Air Resources Board declared that the previously adopted standards to combat vehicle emissions would remain in force despite the federal blockade.In response to the lawsuit, Governor Newsom’s office issued sharp criticism. The timing coincides with rising petrol prices amid the Iran conflict, prompting more drivers to consider switching to electric vehicles. “Gas prices are soaring nationwide because of Trump’s reckless choices, and now he’s attacking the Golden State for trying to give Californians more freedom and cheaper options,” said Newsom’s spokesperson Anthony Martinez in a statement.According to the American Automobile Association, petrol at California filling stations cost an average of $5.37 dollars per gallon at the end of last week. In comparison, the national average stood at $3.60 dollars per gallon.apnews.com
