Wolf Administration Denounces Trump Administration’s Rollback of Critical Auto Emissions Standards

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today denounced the Trump Administration’s action to revoke California’s authority to set its own auto emission standards for greenhouse gases.

“California’s enhanced vehicle standards have set a nationwide example for reducing vehicle emissions, and Pennsylvanians have benefited from these standards as we work to reduce greenhouse gases and fight climate change,” said DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell. “Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, and the costs that Pennsylvanians will pay in the form of climate impacts will be significant.”

In 2008, Pennsylvania began requiring that model year 2008 and newer passenger cars and light-duty trucks meet California emissions standards to reduce pollutants that form ground-level ozone and fine particulate matter. These pollutants have a harmful effect on public health and safety and the environment. The Trump Administration’s action to revoke California’s waiver to regulate greenhouse gas pollution from these vehicles should not affect Pennsylvania’s program to control ozone and particle pollution, which will remain in place. Cars and light-duty trucks sold or leased in Pennsylvania will still require California certification.

“Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and we should be focused on increasing our efforts to combat it,” McDonnell said. “The Wolf administration has made it a priority to address climate change, and we will continue to push for solutions.”