Thirty-Five Democrats Join GOP Against Climate Policy

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va) of the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee

The House voted to block California from enforcing a rule banning sales of new gasoline-powered cars by 2035. The resolution targets one of the most ambitious climate policies in the nation. Lawmakers have not yet determined if the Senate will act on the measure.

U.S. Rep. John Joyce at Franklin County Career and Technology Center

Representative John Joyce (R-PA) introduced the resolution under the Congressional Review Act, allowing Congress to nullify a regulation within 60 days with a simple majority. House Republicans ignored legal opinions stating that Congress lacks authority to prevent states from enforcing climate regulations.

Sam Worley of Chambersburg received a copy of the Congressional Record from U.S. Rep. John Joyce

Joyce said, “Congress, not California, is the only body that can regulate the interstate automotive market.”

U.S. Rep. John Joyce greets a student

Eleven states have pledged to adopt California's rule, which represents about 40 percent of the U.S. auto market. In the House, 35 Democrats joined Republicans in supporting the resolution.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-WV, speaks during the Republican National Convention

Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) sponsored the Senate version of the resolution and is exploring options for a vote. Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY) warned that passing the resolution could set a concerning precedent for federal overreach into state authority.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito speaks at Quicken Loans Arena

Capito said, “We’re exploring all options.” She added, “That was submitted as a rule by the administration; that should be covered under the Congressional Review Act.”

California Attorney General Rob Bonta speaks to Stockton

A spokeswoman for California Attorney General Rob Bonta (D) stated that he may challenge the waiver revocation in court. Under President Biden, the EPA has granted California three waivers to enforce vehicle emissions rules.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta speaks at a press conference

Zero Emission Transportation Association executive director Albert Gore said, “Congress is not better suited than state governments to decide whether to adopt clean air standards for communities in those states.”

Jennifer White covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.