EPA reinstatement of California’s waiver affirms states’ authority to adopt stronger clean vehicle standards; will drive new jobs to America’s electrified transportation and manufacturing sectors 

Washington, D.C., March 9, 2022 — Today, national business group Advanced Energy Economy (AEE) celebrated the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) decision to restore California’s Clean Air Act waiver to regulate vehicle emissions, which led to California’s Advanced Clean Cars (ACC), a long-standing program adopted by 16 states and the District of Columbia, which has helped create a market for vehicles that are more efficient and less polluting.

AEE transportation policy director Ryan Gallentine released the following statement: 

“In addition to helping to reduce smog, ACC has played a critical role in fostering an electrified transportation industry in the U.S. With the California waiver restored, America’s electrified transportation industry can more confidently invest in producing zero-emission vehicles and installing vehicle-charging infrastructure for households, businesses, and government fleets.” 

“Now back in the driver’s seat, state leaders should take the opportunity to accelerate the transition to electric transportation for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. These vehicles produce about a quarter of all vehicle-generated air pollution and setting more aggressive standards will help accelerate the market for an emerging industry of electric school buses and delivery vehicles.” 

“Electric vehicles provide great economic opportunities for America’s nascent but growing EV workforce. With California’s waiver back in force, states will now be able to focus on implementing the federal infrastructure investments to build a comprehensive charging network, which will in turn spur private investment in the domestic supply chains that make up a strong EV manufacturing industry.” 

Background Materials 

• Read our national EV supply chain report. 
• Read our state implementation roadmap for incoming EV funding.