The U.S. House of Representatives voted on September 20 to overturn a Biden administration rule that imposes stricter emissions standards on car manufacturers. The joint resolution, which passed with a vote of 215-191, would nullify the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new restrictions on emissions from cars, light trucks, pick-ups, and vans for model years 2027 to 2032. While the rule does not explicitly require electric vehicles (EVs), it is expected to push manufacturers towards electrifying more of their fleets in order to comply.
The resolution received support from eight Democrats and one Republican, while one Republican voted against it. Prior to the vote, the White House expressed opposition to the resolution, arguing that it would create uncertainty in the U.S. auto market and supply chains and give China an advantage in the electric vehicle and battery markets.
The House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition echoed this view, stating that the new standards are reasonable and widely supported by various stakeholders including vehicle manufacturers and union workers.
On the other hand, the American Energy Alliance celebrated the passage of the bill as a victory for consumers’ freedom of choice in transportation options.
The measure will now move on to be voted upon in the Senate. Democrats currently hold a slim majority in this chamber with a 51-49 split thanks to independent members who caucus with them. Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia has been critical of Biden’s energy policies regarding electric vehicles and could play a pivotal role as a swing vote for Republicans seeking passage of their resolution.
However, President Biden has vowed to veto any such measure if it reaches his desk.
