SLC Times

WASHINGTON – Senators Mike Lee (R-UT), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Steve Daines (R-MT), and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) have introduced the Stop California from Advancing Regulatory Burden Act, or Stop CARB Act. This legislation aims to limit California's influence over national emissions standards, which has been facilitated by federal waivers under the Clean Air Act.

"California, through CARB, has taken its regulatory zeal too far," Senator Lee stated. "By abusing the Clean Air Act's waiver provision, California is effectively legislating for the entire nation. This overreach is disrupting supply chains, resulting in higher costs for families, a reduction of consumer choice, and increased shipping expenses."

Congressman Troy E. Nehls (R-TX-22) leads a companion effort in the House of Representatives. “California will not govern the great state of Texas,” said Congressman Nehls. “The liberal state of California should not set egregious standards for the rest of the country. The Stop CARB Act will repeal the Harris-Biden’s EPA’s radical, out-of-touch use of CARB waivers, allowing other states to set their own standards and protecting consumer choice and our nation’s supply chains.”

Senator Ricketts added his concerns: “Environmental extremists in California are abusing EPA waivers to force their radical EV agenda on our country,” he said. “Their emissions standards will restrict consumer choice, jeopardize national supply chains, and threaten our economy.”

The Clean Air Act of 1970 granted California the ability to apply for waivers that allow it to set higher emissions standards than federal levels. Currently, California holds over 100 active waivers affecting industries ranging from automotive manufacturing to farming and construction. Other states can adopt these stringent standards without modification; 17 states plus the District of Columbia have done so.

"Congress never intended for one state to dictate emissions policy for the entire country," Senator Lee continued. "The Stop CARB Act will ensure that California's regulatory reach stops at its own borders."

The Stop CARB Act proposes:

1. Repealing California's waiver exemption in Section 209 of the Clean Air Act;

2. Repealing Section 177 of the Clean Air Act;

3. Nullifying any active or pending waivers granted to California.

Heritage Action commented on this initiative: "For years, California has used the Biden–Harris EPA to force the rest of the country to adhere to unrealistic Green New Deal-style climate requirements." Americans For Prosperity echoed similar sentiments: "AFP is proud to support Senator Lee's legislation to restore regulatory balance in the EPA waiver process."

Industry voices also expressed support for this bill:

"In short line railroad industry...CARB's proposed rule would force railroads...to acquire locomotives that are not commercially available," said Chuck Baker from American Short Line & Regional Railroad Association.

Daren Bakst from Competitive Enterprise Institute remarked: "Americans rely upon gas-powered cars...one state [California] would like to kill off gas-powered cars."

Ian Jefferies from Association of American Railroads noted: "Sen. Lee’s legislation will help rein in CARB’s unreasonable agenda."