The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on July 29, 2025, that it is looking to drop its rules on greenhouse gas emissions for trucks and all vehicles. This proposal would cancel the "Endangerment Finding" that has been around since 2009. Without it, the EPA won't be able to set standards for greenhouse gas emissions from new trucks and cars.
What would change: If the change is approved:
- Truck and engine manufacturers would no longer need to measure, control, or report greenhouse gas emissions for past or future vehicles.
- Rules about fuel economy labeling and other pollution standards would stay the same for now.
Why it matters: Many truckers and folks in the industry have voiced concerns for years about the cost and headache of these rules. Chris Wright, U.S. Energy Secretary, said the move could mean "lower-cost vehicles, lower-cost consumer products, lower energy bills, and all the things Americans instinctually want."
The other side: Some officials warn this could roll back air protections. Washington State's attorney general said he may sue if EPA presses on, saying, "We won’t stand by as our children’s future is sacrificed to appease fossil fuel interests."
What’s next: Public comments are open until September 15, 2025, and the EPA will hold a virtual public hearing August 19-21, according to EPA.gov.