The Senate has taken a significant step by voting to block California’s groundbreaking rule that aims to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. This action represents the first of three resolutions aimed at rolling back the state’s vehicle emissions standards. Following the Senate’s approval, the resolution will be sent to the White House, where President Donald Trump is anticipated to sign it, alongside two other measures that are expected to be passed by the Senate. The House had already approved these resolutions earlier in the month.
This decision to undermine California’s pollution control initiatives comes after Senate Republicans created a new exception to the Senate filibuster, enabling them to influence the matter. The potential consequences of these votes could significantly affect California’s long-standing efforts to reduce air pollution.