Trump Administration’s Reckless Attack on California Clean Vehicle Safeguards Would Mean More Pollution, Death and Disease, Higher Costs

“The Trump administration filed a reckless lawsuit against the state of California today attacking state clean air safeguards that protect people from health-harming and climate-destabilizing pollution and lead to cost savings for millions. 

“California’s standards are firmly anchored in our nation’s clean air laws. For more than half a century, and across both Republican and Democratic presidential administrations, California has adopted standards that cut pollution and result in enormous health benefits for people across the state. EDF’s analysis finds that these safeguards, including rules now under attack by the Trump administration, would prevent thousands of people from dying prematurely and would save California up to $55 billion in health care costs. 

“Californian’s vehicle emission standards have been an enormous success for generations. They are now more vital than ever as Californians continue to suffer from elevated levels of harmful air pollution and extensive damage from climate-fueled extreme weather events. 

“The Trump administration’s lawsuit seeking to override California’s clean vehicle safeguards is deeply reckless and would force Californians to breathe dirtier air — leading to more death, more disease and higher costs for the states almost 40 million people. The federal government should be focused on protecting Americans and not using its resources to prevent states from taking actions that are urgently needed and benefit their residents’ health, well-being and pocketbooks.”  

      - Peter Zalzal, Distinguished Counsel and Associate Vice President for Clean Air Strategies, Environmental Defense Fund