The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved California's Clean Air Act waiver, allowing the state to implement its Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) program and a separate initiative to reduce emissions from new heavy-duty trucks. This approval marks a significant step in California's efforts to mitigate passenger vehicle pollution.
Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, commented on the decision: “Approving the Advanced Clean Cars II program is an important step in the ongoing progress needed to clean the nation’s air.” He added that with EPA's reaffirmation of California's authority, states adopting this program can now utilize enhanced tools to cut air pollution, which will have lifesaving effects.
The American Lung Association's 2024 report titled "Living and Breathing in California" highlights that ACC II could potentially save about 1,200 lives and produce $12.9 billion in public health benefits by improving air quality in California alone. These benefits are expected to extend as other states also adopt this program.
Additionally, EPA has sanctioned California's Low NOx Truck standard under the Clean Air Act waiver. This standard is anticipated to save more than 2,400 lives and generate $23 billion in health benefits for California during its implementation phase.
California holds unique authority under the Clean Air Act to develop stricter vehicle emission standards than federal requirements to meet clean air objectives. EPA must approve state-level programs that comply with legal standards. Together, ACC II, Low NOx Trucks, and six other pending requests are projected to yield $116 billion in public health benefits and save over 11,000 lives solely within California.
Wimmer further urged: “We urge EPA to approve California’s remaining outstanding waivers and authorizations for other lifesaving clean air programs.”
