On Sept. 19, 2019, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a final rule called “One National Program Rule,” which provides for nationwide uniform fuel economy and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards for automobiles and light-duty trucks. The rule makes clear federal law preempts any state and local tailpipe GHG emissions standards as well as zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandates. As a result, EPA is withdrawing the Clean Air Act preemption waiver it granted to the State of California as it relates to California’s GHG and ZEV programs. California’s ability to enforce its Low Emission Vehicle program and other clean air standards to address smog-causing vehicle emissions is not affected by this action.
In the final rule, NHTSA further affirms its authority to set national fuel economy standards.
While this action does not directly affect the medium and heavy truck phase 2 GHG and fuel efficiency regulations approved by EPA and NHTSA, the precedent could ultimately benefit truck manufacturers hoping to be able to build engines and vehicles to one national standard.
View a pre-publication copy of the final rule.
NTEA supports the concept of nationwide uniform regulations for vocational trucks. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available. For additional work truck industry legislative and regulatory resources, visit ntea.com/advocacy.
