Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

California's Gas Vehicle Ban Faces Federal Roadblock

5/6/2025

41 7

Summary

Story summary

California's bold climate initiatives are under threat as federal lawmakers voted to halt the state's plan to ban new gas-powered vehicles by 2035, affecting 11 states. With carbon prices on the rise, lawmakers are exploring ways to use carbon market revenues to ease the financial burden on consumers while striving to meet climate objectives.

History

Historical Context

California's climate initiatives, rooted in the 2006 Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32), aimed to cut greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. This legislation, alongside SB 375, sought to reshape urban planning and transportation. Current federal pushback against these initiatives echoes past tensions between state and federal environmental policies, reminiscent of the 1980s debates over the Clean Air Act and states' rights.

1 of 2

Story summary

California's bold climate initiatives are under threat as federal lawmakers voted to halt the state's plan to ban new gas-powered vehicles by 2035, affecting 11 states. With carbon prices on the rise, lawmakers are exploring ways to use carbon market revenues to ease the financial burden on consumers while striving to meet climate objectives.

1 / 2