Automotive
By the top of 2024, Virginia will shift from adhering to California’s emissions regulations to following federal standards. Governor Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, has endorsed this modification, emphasizing that Virginians must have the liberty to decide on their vehicles without government intervention. He criticized the thought of the federal government dictating which cars people can purchase as “fundamentally unsuitable.”
Governor Youngkin’s decision has sparked controversy. Environmental groups and a few political leaders oppose the move. Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell accused Youngkin of breaking the law, claiming that the attorney general is supporting the governor’s decision improperly. The Southern Environmental Law Center, represented by senior attorney Trip Pollard, argues that the Clean Cars standards adopted by the General Assembly are vital for environmental and public health advantages in Virginia.
Attorney General Jason Miyares defended the choice, stating that California’s requirements are impractical for Virginia. He reiterated that it’s unreasonable to penalize automobile manufacturers heavily for not meeting California’s standards, suggesting that Virginians must have the autonomy to pick their very own vehicles. Resources Secretary Travis A. Voyles confirmed that Virginia would revert to federal standards at the top of 2024.
Virginia initially adopted the Clean Cars law in 2021, under Democratic leadership. Retaining California’s regulations would have required automotive manufacturers to sell a specified number of electrical and hybrid vehicles within the state. Besides California, states like Latest Jersey and Latest York are also planning to ban the sale of gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035.
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This Article First Appeared At www.automotiveaddicts.com
