Larisa Manescu, larisa.manescu@sierraclub.org
Waivers Will Protect Communities Across Nation from Transportation Pollution, Expand Consumer Choice
Washington, D.C. - Today, the EPA granted California a waiver to implement its Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) program. The ACC II standards protect public health by gradually phasing out the sale of new gas cars and expanding consumer choice for zero-emission vehicles. This waiver ensures that California and other states that have adopted the program can implement it on schedule.
Today, the EPA also granted a waiver for California’s low-nitrogen oxide (NOx) heavy-duty Omnibus regulation, which will significantly reduce smog-forming NOx emissions from new trucks and buses. The rule will save lives and is critical for California and other states to meet federal air quality standards.
In response to the EPA finalizing the waiver, Sierra Club Clean Transportation for All Director Katherine Garcia issued the following statement:
“We’re thankful the EPA is approving the next generation of clean car and truck standards so that states can get moving on implementing their programs to achieve their public health and clean air goals. Auto manufacturers prioritize delivering clean, zero-emission cars to states that have adopted ACC II, so this is a win for consumer choice and healthier communities.
“We urge the EPA to swiftly grant the remaining California waivers, which are crucial for states to protect their residents from transportation pollution.”
Background: Under the Clean Air Act, only California has the ability to adopt its own vehicle emissions standards. The Act allows other states to adopt California’s motor vehicle emissions standards, provided that each state’s standards are effectively identical to the California standards. Neither California nor other states can enforce the standards until the EPA grants California a waiver from the EPA.
The ACC II program requires manufacturers to deliver a gradually increasing percentage of new zero-emission vehicles to states each year. The program starts with model year 2026 vehicles and phases out the sale of new gas-powered vehicles (other than plug-in hybrids). Sales of used cars are not affected by the program.
The low-NOx Omnibus program sets more stringent air pollution emissions standards for heavy-duty vehicles, improves testing requirements for engines, and extends engine warranties.
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.