States push EPA to block California’s electric truck mandate

California is seeking a waiver from the EPA to implement strict electric truck standards that would affect out-of-state trucking companies operating in the state. This has prompted a coalition of states, led by Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers, to petition the Biden-Harris administration to block California's mandate, arguing that it oversteps legal boundaries and imposes undue burdens on interstate commerce. They contend that California's air quality issues are not unique and that the proposed regulations could disrupt supply chains nationwide. The petitioners express concerns that California's regulations would unfairly grant the state authority over other states, particularly impacting regions that rely heavily on big rig transportation. West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey highlighted the potential economic harm, stating that the rules could restrict access to vital trade routes and ports for diesel-powered trucks. Critics of the electric truck mandate, including the American Trucking Associations, argue that the regulations set unrealistic targets and timelines, which could lead to confusion and severe disruptions in the supply chain. They emphasize that the far-left climate agenda being pursued by California should not dictate policies for the entire country. The ongoing debate raises questions about the balance of state and federal authority in environmental regulations and the implications for the trucking industry. As states rally against California's electric truck mandate, the outcome could significantly influence transportation policies and economic conditions across the United States.