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President Donald Trump signed a series of bills on Thursday (June 12) that prevents California from enforcing its own vehicle emission standards. The new federal law overrides California's stricter regulations, which aimed to ban gas-powered cars by 2035.
The legislation represents a significant shift in the balance of power between federal and state governments regarding environmental regulations. California has long been a leader in setting ambitious climate policies, often serving as a model for other states. However, the new law curtails the state's ability to enforce these standards independently.
President Trump emphasized that the bill is designed to create a unified national standard for vehicle emissions, which he argues will benefit the automotive industry by reducing regulatory complexity. The move has sparked controversy, with environmental groups and California officials expressing concern about its potential impact on air quality and climate change efforts.
The bill is expected to face legal challenges from California and other states that support stricter emission standards. These states argue that the federal government is undermining their rights to protect their residents' health and the environment.