The House of Representatives voted to repeal California's clean truck policies, aiming to halt the state's mandate for zero-emission vehicles and its smog reduction efforts. This decision challenges California's authority under the 1970 Clean Air Act, which allows it to set stricter pollution standards than federal regulations. The move is supported by fossil fuel interests and faces opposition from environmental advocates and California officials, who argue it undermines public health and climate change mitigation efforts. The issue now progresses to the Senate, where further legal and political battles are expected, particularly concerning the legitimacy of using the Congressional Review Act to overturn state waivers. Governor Gavin Newsom and other California leaders vow to defend the state's right to implement its environmental policies, emphasizing the health benefits of reducing nitrogen oxide emissions and transitioning to electric vehicles.

House Republicans, alongside some Democrats, voted to prevent California from mandating that dealers increase the sale of zero-emission medium and heavy-duty vehicles, claiming it imposes undue economic burdens.

California's clean air policies, supported by the 1970 Clean Air Act, have historically allowed the state to implement stricter environmental standards, which other states can choose to adopt, fostering a broader shift towards cleaner technologies.

The House's decision is seen as a win for fossil fuel companies and the trucking industry, who argue against California's limitations on nitrogen oxide emissions, despite these regulations promising significant public health benefits.

Former President Trump and Republican lawmakers frame California's environmental policies as overreach, arguing that they effectively set national standards and hinder consumer choice by promoting electric vehicles.

Environmental advocates and Democratic leaders argue that revoking California's waivers could worsen air quality and public health, potentially leading to increased illness and mortality due to elevated ozone levels.

The legality of using the Congressional Review Act to challenge California's waivers is contested, with the Senate parliamentarian ruling that these waivers do not qualify as agency regulations subject to such votes.

California officials, including Governor Newsom, are prepared to challenge the legality of these congressional actions, emphasizing the state's established rights to enact pollution control measures and the broader implications for states' rights and environmental protection.