Amendment to repeal the MPCA’s authority to propose new clean car rules in HF 4554 the House Environment & Natural Resources funding bill
Emissions from cars and trucks are the number one source of climate pollution in Minnesota. In addition to contributing to climate change, gasoline and diesel vehicles emit particulate matter into our air. Every year in Minnesota, poor air quality contributes to 2,000 to 4,000 premature deaths, 500 hospitalizations, and 800 emergency room visits. And these impacts are not distributed equally. Children, the elderly, economically disadvantaged communities, and communities of color pay disproportionately for the cost of pollution.
Automakers have announced plans for over 300 models of electric vehicles, including many crossover vehicles, SUVs, and pick-up trucks. However, in Minnesota, only about half of the electric vehicles on the market are available for sale. Minnesota car buyers have limited electric vehicle options because automakers have prioritized states that have adopted advanced Clean Car Standards.
In 2019, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) began collecting public input on clean cars standards for Minnesota that would reduce carbon emissions for new cars and give consumers more choices in purchasing low or zero emission vehicles.
An amendment was proposed to HF 4554 to repeal the MPCA’s authority to propose new clean car rules.
