**Congress Blocks Stricter Pollution Controls in California**

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13 days ago - Politics

Congress Blocks California's Pollution Control Rules

In a recent vote, the House of Representatives passed a resolution that blocks stricter pollution control rules proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for cars and trucks in California. This decision means that the tougher limits on harmful nitrogen oxide emissions will not be enforced.

House Republicans pushed for this resolution, arguing that the new pollution standards could affect how vehicles perform and hurt manufacturers financially. By passing the resolution, Congress has chosen to remove the EPA's plan to limit pollution from vehicles, which was designed to improve air quality and protect public health.

These stricter rules were meant to reduce pollution that causes smog and can lead to breathing problems for people living in California, a state known for its air quality issues. Now, with the resolution passed, manufacturers are free to produce and sell vehicles without having to meet these new standards, which could lead to more older, polluting vehicles remaining on the road without penalties.

This outcome affects the everyday lives of Californians. While some people may appreciate the return to less strict rules, many are worried about the potential increase in air pollution and related health problems. The outcome of this vote highlights an ongoing debate in Congress about finding the right balance between protecting the environment and supporting economic activity.

In summary, the House's decision to pass this resolution marks a significant step back for pollution control efforts in California, raising concerns about air quality and public health in the state.

This is a resolution that Congress voted to disapprove a rule made by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The important points are:

  1. Congress does not support a rule from the EPA about pollution control for cars and engines in California.
  2. This rule is known as the "Omnibus Low NOX Regulation."
  3. By disapproving this rule, it will not be enforced.
  4. The resolution was submitted by several representatives on April 2, 2025.
  5. The decision means that California's pollution standards for vehicles, which were set to reduce pollution, will not be allowed to take effect.
421 votes

Yes

225

No

196

Not Voting

12

  1. Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
  2. On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 225 - 196 (Roll no. 112).
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  3. Passed/agreed to in House: On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 225 - 196 (Roll no. 112).
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  4. Considered as unfinished business.
  5. POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS - At the conclusion of debate on H.J. Res. 89, the Chair put the question on passage of the joint resolution and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Pallone demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings until a time to be announced.
  6. The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.
  7. DEBATE - The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H.J. Res. 89.
  8. Rule provides for consideration of H.J. Res. 60, H.J. Res. 78, H.J. Res. 87, H.J. Res. 88, and H.J. Res. 89. The resolution provides for consideration of H.J. Res. 60, H.J. Res. 78, H.J. Res. 87, H.J. Res. 88, and H.J. Res. 89 under a closed rule with one hour of debate and one motion to recommit on each joint resolution.
  9. Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 354.
  10. Rule H. Res. 354 passed House.
  11. Rules Committee Resolution H. Res. 354 Reported to House. Rule provides for consideration of H.J. Res. 60, H.J. Res. 78, H.J. Res. 87, H.J. Res. 88 and H The resolution provides for consideration of H.J. Res. 60, H.J. Res. 78, H.J. Res. 87, H.J. Res. 88, and H.J. Res. 89 under a closed rule with one hour of debate and one motion to recommit on each joint resolution.
  12. Introduced in House

    This is a resolution that Congress voted to disapprove a rule made by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

    The important points are:

    1. Congress does not support a rule from the EPA about pollution control for cars and engines in California.
    2. This rule is known as the "Omnibus Low NOX Regulation."
    3. By disapproving this rule, it will not be enforced.
    4. The resolution was submitted by several representatives on April 2, 2025.
    5. The decision means that California's pollution standards for vehicles, which were set to reduce pollution, will not be allowed to take effect.
  13. Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  14. Introduced in House