WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) — The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued new rules aimed at cutting carbon emissions while also boosting electric vehicles and hybrids.
“Gives the auto industry the flexibility to choose the combination of pollution control technologies best suited for their customers,” Michael Regan, EPA Administrator said.
EPA Administrator Michael Regan says this plan will help car companies make adjustments but it’s a temporary reprieve.
The revised standards impact newly manufactured cars and trucks from model years 2027 to 2032 when the EPA’s original tougher regulations kick back in.
“Cleaner vehicles and lower emissions means so much to the people across this country,” Regan said.
Carmakers say the only way they can meet the 2032 emissions limits is to switch to electric vehicles in a big way.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) believes the EPA rules will shift jobs to foreign carmakers.
“The White House is more eager to appease radical environmental activists than the American people,” Johnson said.
Ohio Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio.) says the U.S. must protect domestic auto jobs.
“I just want American workers and union workers to make these cars. I don’t care if they are making EVs or traditional cars,” Brown said.
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) says the White House should pump the brakes.
“I hope Washington Democrats will snap out of their climate daydream before it becomes a nightmare,” McConnell said.
McConnell says he wants to see an increase in American oil production because most people still drive gas-powered cars.
