EPA to Roll Back Raft of Climate Regulations, Including EV Rule

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin made the “largest deregulatory announcement in U.S. history” on March 12. In a video released by the agency, he stated that the EPA will be rolling back 31 regulations to fulfill President Donald Trump’s goals of boosting American energy, revitalizing the auto industry, restoring the rule of law, and empowering states.

Zeldin’s actions indicate forthcoming efforts to repeal EPA regulations that impact the purchase of low-emission electric vehicles and other federal climate and pollution rules.

The EPA highlighted its upcoming actions on regulations that were introduced during the administrations of former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden, which the agency believes have led to significant regulatory costs.

The exact nature of the actions to be taken and their timeline for implementation regarding the 31 highlighted regulations have not been clarified. The EPA did not respond immediately to a request for comment from The Epoch Times seeking further information.

Zeldin stated, “We are driving a dagger straight into the heart of the climate change religion to drive down the cost of living for American families, unleash American energy, bring auto jobs back to the U.S., and more.”

Endangerment Finding

The EPA, along with the Office of Management and Budget, will reconsider the landmark 2009 Endangerment Finding and its associated regulations and actions. This finding, signed by former EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, concluded that certain greenhouse gases pose a threat to public health and welfare, with emissions from vehicles contributing to greenhouse gas pollution.

Zeldin emphasized the administration’s focus on national prosperity, energy security, and consumer choice while revisiting the Endangerment Finding and its implications.

Electric Vehicles

The EPA will revisit regulations related to Model Year 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles, Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles, and the Biden administration’s ‘Clean Trucks Plan.’ These actions aim to address the costs and restrictions associated with electric vehicle mandates.

‘Waters of the United States’

The EPA will review the definition of ‘waters of the United States’ in the Clean Water Act in collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to determine permit requirements for various projects.

The agency acknowledged the need to comply with the law and address Supreme Court rulings in this area to support economic growth and protect human health and the environment.

Clean Power Plan 2.0

The EPA will reassess the Clean Power Plan 2.0, which replaced a previous plan invalidated by the Supreme Court. This move aims to ensure adherence to the rule of law and provide Americans with reliable and affordable energy options.