Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act
Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act
Plain Language Summary
# Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act (HR 346) - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would restrict states' ability to set their own vehicle emission standards, particularly those that limit sales of gas-powered cars. Currently, under the Clean Air Act, states can adopt stricter emission rules than federal standards if the EPA grants them a waiver. This bill would block the EPA from approving waivers for state standards that limit internal combustion engine vehicles (traditional gas cars) and would require the EPA to cancel any such waivers granted since January 2022. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects states that have adopted or want to adopt stricter vehicle emission standards (like California and others that follow its rules), automakers producing vehicles, and consumers.
It would prevent these states from using emission regulations to phase out or reduce gas-powered vehicles and could limit consumer access to certain vehicle types in those states. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not been voted on by the full House. It was introduced by Rep. John Joyce (R-PA).
CRS Official Summary
Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act This bill modifies the waiver process under the Clean Air Act related to state emission control standards for new motor vehicles (or new motor vehicle engines). Under current law, states are preempted from adopting or enforcing emission control standards for new motor vehicles (or new motor vehicle engines) unless the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a waiver authorizing a state to adopt such standards if certain requirements are met. The bill provides that state standards that directly or indirectly limit the sale or use of new motor vehicles with internal combustion engines are not eligible for waivers. The bill also prohibits the EPA from determining that any state standards amended after the bill's enactment are within the scope of an existing waiver. Additionally, the bill requires the EPA to revoke waivers granted between January 1, 2022, and the date of enactment of this bill if the standards directly or indirectly limit the sale or use of new motor vehicles with internal combustion engines.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.