Republicans Rally Against Biden’s Proposed Tailpipe Emissions Regulations
A coalition of more than 130 Republican lawmakers has sent a letter to the White House, urging President Biden to withdraw proposed tailpipe emissions regulations that would mandate a transition to electric vehicles (EVs). Led by Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) and Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), the Republicans argue that these regulations issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) amount to a de facto phaseout of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
In their letter, the lawmakers express concern that President Biden’s push for EVs would force American families to buy electric vehicles, without considering the financial burden this would place on them. They argue that Biden’s agenda to advance the Green New Deal would prioritize his own environmental goals over the needs and preferences of American families, businesses, and farms.
Furthermore, the lawmakers criticize the reliance on China for critical materials needed to manufacture electric vehicles. They argue that this misguided decision strengthens China while weakening the American economy. By sourcing these materials primarily from China, the United States becomes more dependent on foreign supply chains and exposes itself to potential vulnerabilities.
The proposed regulations, unveiled by the EPA in April 2023, aim to have 67% of new sedan, crossover, SUV, and light truck purchases as electric vehicles by 2032. Additionally, the White House projects that up to 50% of bus and garbage truck, 35% of short-haul freight tractor, and 25% of long-haul freight tractor purchases could also be electric by then. The administration claims that these regulations would accelerate the clean vehicle transition and reduce oil imports by 20 billion barrels.
However, the proposal has faced significant opposition from Republicans, as well as some Democrats and energy industry groups. Critics argue that it will limit consumer choice, drive up prices, and ultimately benefit China, which dominates the electric vehicle battery supply chain.
Last year, thousands of auto dealers across the country, representing every major car brand, called on President Biden to rescind the EPA proposal. They warned that while some consumers may be satisfied with electric vehicles, the demand is not keeping up with supply, leading to unwanted EVs filling up dealership lots.
Moreover, the Republicans argue that the Biden administration’s proposal would make the United States more dependent on China for critical materials. China currently produces about 75% of all lithium-ion batteries and has a significant share of production capacity for important battery components.
In addition to these concerns, the Republicans highlight the significant cost difference between electric vehicles and traditional gas-powered cars. Even with federal and state subsidies, the average cost of an electric vehicle is approximately $52,500, compared to $24,000 for an average gas subcompact car.
The letter was signed by 24 senators, including Energy and Natural Resources Chairman Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) and Ranking Member John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), as well as 113 House members, including GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) and Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-Pa.).
The White House has not yet responded to the letter. Critics of the proposed regulations argue that they would limit consumer choice, increase costs, and make the United States more dependent on China for critical materials. As the debate continues, the future of the EPA’s tailpipe emissions regulations remains uncertain.
