A coalition of 26 Republican state attorneys general is gearing up to challenge the Biden administration’s latest fuel efficiency standards in court, according to a new report from Fox News.
This move comes in response to a new federal rule that dramatically increases fuel economy requirements for cars and light trucks over the next decade.
Kentucky’s Russell Coleman and West Virginia’s Patrick Morrisey are leading the charge, filing a notice of intent to sue in the 6th Circuit Court.
The attorneys general argue that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has overstepped its authority with this regulation.
The new rule, which took effect earlier this week, is seen by critics as a thinly veiled push to boost electric vehicle (EV) production.
TRENDING: Maxine Waters: If Trump Wins Millions Will be Threatened and “Killings” Will Happen
Coleman didn’t mince words, stating, “Once again, President Biden’s election-year politics value their nonsensical green agenda over helping Kentuckians put food on the table.”
At the heart of the lawsuit is the claim that the NHTSA lacks the congressional mandate to enact such sweeping changes.
WATCH: Attorney General Ashley Moody leads Florida in 25-state lawsuit battling Biden administration’s new strict emissions rule and electric vehicle quota pic.twitter.com/7fRwyX1wTQ
— Florida’s Voice (@FLVoiceNews) April 27, 2024
Morrisey claims “Congress did not give the NHTSA such power to reshape an industry that would ultimately affect the pocketbooks of consumers — this rule is legally flawed and unrealistic.”
The attorneys general raise several concerns about the potential consequences of these new standards:
1. Market interference: They argue the rule forces a shift to EVs without considering consumer demand.
2. Economic burden: There’s worry about increased costs for families already struggling with inflation.
3. Grid reliability: Questions arise about whether the power grid can handle a rapid increase in EV adoption.
4. Energy independence: Some fear increased reliance on foreign countries, particularly China, for energy needs.
Coleman points out that EVs currently make up less than 1% of registered vehicles in Kentucky, highlighting the gap between the administration’s goals and current consumer preferences.
This legal challenge represents a significant pushback against the Biden administration’s environmental agenda.
The outcome could have far-reaching effects on the auto industry, consumer choice, and U.S. environmental policy.
BREAKING: The WV AG is co-leading with Kentucky a coalition of 26 states in challenging the Biden administration’s latest attempt to drive gas-powered vehicles off the road.
READ MORE: https://t.co/jb9FpfihFu pic.twitter.com/vrZh5OATjS
— WV Attorney General (@WestVirginiaAG) June 26, 2024
The courts will need to determine if the NHTSA’s rule falls within its authority and whether the potential economic impact outweighs the intended environmental benefits.
Legal experts anticipate a lengthy and closely watched battle.
The resolution could shape U.S. environmental policy and the auto industry for years to come.
This lawsuit goes beyond just fuel efficiency standards.
READ NEXT: Report: Almost Half of American EV Buyers Regret Their Purchase
It touches on broader questions about government’s role in shaping markets, the speed of transition to cleaner technologies, and finding the right balance between environmental goals and economic realities.
We believe the 26 state attorney generals have a valid case and hope that they succeed in court in getting this “nonsensical” rule overturned.
