EPA to restore California's power to set vehicle emissions targets

London (Quantum Commodity Intelligence) – The US Environmental Protection Agency is set to hand power back to California in setting standards on vehicle emissions, according to the LA Times.

The move allowing California to set car pollution standards reverses the decision under former US President Donald Trump to withdraw California's authority to set zero-emission targets.

The EPA said that it is reviewing a major Trump-era action that blocked California's legal authority to set tailpipe emission standards for cars and SUVs that are tougher than federal regulations.

After seeking the public's input, as required by law, the agency intends to rescind the previous administration's decision, a spokesman for the agency said.

The EPA's action has national significance as transportation remains the largest source of planet-warming emissions in the United States, and California, with nearly 40 million people, is the country's largest auto market.

The state's unique ability to set its own car pollution rules has influenced federal policy for decades.

That includes introducing fuel and auto-standards.

Thirteen other states and the District of Columbia follow California's more stringent standards, altogether accounting for nearly 40% of auto sales in the United States.

A smaller number have also signed on to the state's mandate that automakers produce more zero-emission vehicles.