House Committee Claims California Ignores Congress EV Emission Rollbacks

California is facing significant challenges in its electric vehicle (EV) policies following actions by President Donald Trump and Congress to revoke the state's authority to set stricter emission standards and eliminate key federal EV tax credits. The House Energy and Commerce Committee, led by Republicans, has accused California of ignoring Congress' rollback of EV standards by enforcing preempted regulations, potentially violating the Clean Air Act, and is investigating the state's practices. Meanwhile, Governor Gavin Newsom has yet to advance his pledged plan to reinstate state EV subsidies to offset the loss of the $7,500 federal tax credit set to expire in September, leaving the EV market concerned about a potential downturn. California officials are also developing new strategies to promote zero-emission vehicles without federal approval amidst warnings that these federal rollbacks could slow EV adoption, worsen air pollution, and cede market leadership to China. The state's EV adoption rate has recently slowed, with Tesla sales dropping amid increased competition and political controversies, underscoring the urgency for policy responses. The ongoing tension between state initiatives and federal rollbacks highlights the complex regulatory landscape affecting EV growth and environmental goals in California and beyond.