Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senators Katie Britt and Mike Crapo, along with 19 Republican colleagues, have reintroduced the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act to preserve Americans' access to a variety of vehicles. This legislation aims to repeal the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) tailpipe emissions rule finalized under the Biden-Harris Administration.

Senator Britt stated, "Common sense has finally returned under President Trump and EPA Administrator Zeldin. Even before this rule was finalized, it was clear the previous administration’s impractical and punitive proposal would have negatively impacted hardworking Americans." She emphasized the importance of consumer choice in vehicle selection based on individual needs.

The CARS Act targets what is described as an aggressive tailpipe emissions proposal that effectively mandates mass production of electric vehicles (EVs) while phasing out gas-powered cars. It seeks to prevent future regulations limiting new motor vehicles based on engine type.

Senator Crapo commented, "The rule-making process under the previous Administration pushed a radical green agenda that harmed consumer choice in the automobile industry." He expressed concerns about rising costs for American families due to these regulations.

Under current EPA rules titled “Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Year 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles,” internal combustion engine vehicles could comprise no more than 30 percent of new sales by 2032. Critics argue this effectively enforces an EV mandate.

The average price disparity between EVs and gas-powered vehicles remains significant despite subsidies. The shift toward EVs may impact American auto workers while benefiting China, which dominates the EV supply chain. Recent data indicates demand for EVs accounts for less than ten percent of new car sales.

Senator Britt previously supported similar legislative efforts in Congress to oppose de facto EV mandates. She also joined other lawmakers urging the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to rescind proposed Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards that they believe restrict consumer options.