The U.S. Senate has voted to pass three Congressional Review Act Resolutions of Disapproval aimed at blocking Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) waivers for cleaner cars and trucks standards. These resolutions, if enacted into law, would prevent the implementation of programs designed to protect public health from vehicle pollution in California and other states.
Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, expressed strong opposition to the Senate's decision. He stated: “Today’s Senate votes to block state clean air programs are nothing short of devastating for health – and for Congress itself."
Wimmer emphasized the importance of these programs by saying: “The programs that the Senate voted to block today save lives. These clean air programs – Advanced Clean Cars II, Advanced Clean Trucks, and Heavy-Duty Omnibus – are rules that clean up pollution from vehicles." He noted that these rules have already been implemented in California, adopted by additional states, and approved by the EPA.
According to Wimmer, overturning this approval equates to removing crucial protections against air pollution. He warned: “Make no mistake: both kids and adults will breathe more soot and smog and suffer asthma attacks that would have been prevented because Congress voted to take away these protections."
Wimmer also criticized the use of the Congressional Review Act in this context, stating it sets a "dangerous precedent" by potentially expanding Congress' power to overturn government actions with a simple majority vote.
He concluded with a call for action from former President Trump: “Senators who voted to overturn clean air protections today are endangering health for kids, seniors, outdoor workers and everyone who lives, works or plays near a busy road. President Trump must veto these resolutions.”
