California’s ban on gas-powered cars by 2035 faces a serious challenge after the House voted to repeal the federal waiver that gave the state that power. The issue now heads to the Senate, where its future remains uncertain.
Key Facts:
- The House voted 246-164 to repeal an EPA waiver allowing California to ban gas-powered cars by 2035.
- Thirty-five Democrats joined Republicans in support of the repeal.
- The EPA waiver was granted under Biden, allowing California to set stricter emission rules than federal standards.
- California’s policy also affects other states, including New York and Washington, that follow its lead.
- The Senate must act by mid-May, but a ruling by the Senate parliamentarian complicates the path forward.
The Rest of The Story:
The House of Representatives passed legislation Thursday aimed at rolling back a Biden-era EPA waiver that allows California to ban the sale of new gasoline-powered cars by 2035.
This federal waiver gave California the authority to enforce more aggressive climate rules than the federal government, influencing emissions policy across several other states.
This vote is part of a broader Republican effort to reverse environmental regulations implemented at the end of the Biden administration.
While California argues the gas vehicle ban is vital for reducing emissions and improving public health, opponents say the plan will drive up vehicle prices, reduce consumer choice, and harm industries still reliant on fossil fuels.
The Senate must now decide whether to uphold or overturn the waiver.
However, the Senate parliamentarian has ruled that the Congressional Review Act, the tool Republicans are using, doesn’t apply to the waiver.
To proceed, Senate Republicans may have to overrule that judgment—a move requiring near-unanimous GOP support.
35 Democrats vote with GOP to block Biden rule allowing Newsom's gas car ban https://t.co/rP33PCLZJN
— Fox News (@FoxNews) May 1, 2025
Commentary:
The House vote is a clear signal that many lawmakers are standing up for consumer freedom and market choice.
Californians—and by extension Americans in nearly a dozen other states—shouldn’t be forced into electric vehicles by government mandate.
If these EVs are truly the better option, let them win in a free market.
The Biden administration’s last-minute approval of California’s waiver was a top-down move that bypassed accountability.
It’s a troubling example of federal agencies being used to impose rules that voters never had a say in.
Republicans are right to push back.
Newsom’s accusation that this is the work of “right-wing propaganda” is just political theater.
The truth is that his policies are deeply unpopular.
Americans are already struggling with inflation and tariffs—adding expensive EV mandates makes things worse.
Major automakers and industry groups aren’t resisting this plan out of malice—they’re sounding the alarm that the rules are unworkable.
Toyota, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers are all raising valid concerns.
The Senate now has the opportunity to correct what the House started.
Yes, it will take guts.
Some moderate GOP senators may hesitate.
But this isn’t just about cars—it’s about whether one state can dictate national policy and whether federal overreach will stand.
If the Senate fails, the EPA will drag out a lengthy rulemaking process.
That could leave Newsom’s ban in place for years, even if the public and the industry don’t want it.
The Senate must act swiftly and decisively.
The Bottom Line:
The House vote to roll back California’s gas car ban brings the fight to the Senate.
California shouldn’t have the power to impose national policies through EPA loopholes.
Voters and consumers deserve choice—not mandates.
The Senate now holds the line on whether California’s rules will stand or fall.
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