Congress Races Toward Clash Over California's Gas Car Ban Rule

Congress is bracing for a showdown over a Biden-era waiver that allows California to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. Leading the charge against this controversial move is Rep. John Joyce, R-Pa., who introduced a resolution of disapproval through the Congressional Review Act. The resolution targets the waiver granted by the Biden administration's EPA, which has been a lightning rod for debate since its approval in December 2024.

The waiver is a cornerstone of California's ambitious climate goals, but opponents like Joyce and House Energy & Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie, R-Ky., argue it's a "de facto EV mandate" that unfairly forces Americans into electric vehicles. Guthrie added, "The American people should choose what vehicle is right for them, not California bureaucrats."

Joyce, echoing similar sentiments, stated, "Since arriving in Washington, I have fought to protect consumer freedom and allow American families to choose the vehicle that best fits their budget and needs." His resolution aims to block what he calls a "disastrous ban" on gas-powered vehicles, which millions of Americans rely on daily.

The waiver's approval came amidst concerns from major automakers about the feasibility of phasing out gas-powered car sales entirely by 2035. State officials, however, have insisted the move is necessary to combat climate change. This tug-of-war isn't new—it's been an ongoing standoff since the Trump administration raised objections to the waiver.

Adding fuel to the fire is the Government Accountability Office (GAO), which recently reported that the waiver isn't subject to the Congressional Review Act, potentially complicating efforts to overturn it. Despite this advisory, supporters of Joyce's resolution argue that the Congressional Review Act gives Congress the ultimate authority to approve or disapprove agency actions.

American Energy Alliance President Tom Pyle weighed in, saying, "Despite misleading reports, the Congressional Review Act is crystal clear: once an agency action is submitted to Congress, it is Congress—and Congress alone—that holds the unassailable power to approve or disapprove that action."

With backing from the House Energy & Commerce Committee, Joyce's resolution has a strong chance of gaining Republican support. Whether this legislative push will successfully block California's gas car ban remains to be seen, but the battle lines have been drawn.