California has withdrawn its requests to enforce stricter pollution rules on trucks and locomotives, anticipating resistance from the incoming Trump administration.
Mike Lee, Alex Nieves and Blanca Begert report for POLITICO.
In short:
- The state rescinded requests for EPA waivers to implement rules mandating zero-emission trucks and reduced diesel emissions from locomotives.
- The decision follows President-elect Trump’s vow to dismantle California’s environmental regulations and ongoing lawsuits from industry groups.
- California officials expressed disappointment but emphasized ongoing efforts to improve air quality despite federal challenges.
Key quote:
"Withdrawal is an important step given the uncertainty presented by the incoming administration that previously attacked California’s programs to protect public health and the climate."
— Liane Randolph, California Air Resources Board Chair
Why this matters:
California’s clean air policies often set the precedent for national environmental standards. Delays or rollbacks in state regulations could slow progress on public health improvements, with consequences for pollution-heavy regions and vulnerable populations.
Related: California faces fresh battle over environmental policies as Trump returns to office
