CALIFORNIA—
Governor Gavin Newsom announced on June 12, that he signed an executive order doubling down on the state’s efforts to transition away from fossil fuels.
The executive order follows President Donald Trump’s signing of Congressional resolutions attempting to roll back California’s clean cars and trucks program, which Newsom called illegal.
Newsom’s office said the action reflects Trump’s campaign against California, including the militarization of Los Angeles and funding cuts.
Key points of the executive order
The executive order advances the states’ clean vehicles program, aiming to reduce air pollution, create jobs and strengthen the state’s clean transportation industry.
The order also steers state vehicle purchases to manufacturers adhering to clean regulations and seeks recommendations to advance the clean vehicle transition.
The executive order:
- Reaffirms the state’s commitment to zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) deployment;
- Begins developing Advanced Clean Cars III regulations to enhance emission reduction strategies;
- Prioritizes funding for state incentive programs for clean manufacturers and fleets;
- Continues Clean Truck Partnership work and requires reports on progress every six months;
- Directs state agencies to propose ZEV adoption strategies within 60 days, covering consumer protection, infrastructure, voluntary efforts and local partnerships.
Five out of ten cities with the worst air nationwide are in California
According to the news release, California standards have improved air quality, however five of the ten cities with the worst air pollution nationwide are in California – Los Angeles, Visalia, Bakersfield, the Fresno area and San Diego.
People in these areas suffer high rates of asthma and cardiopulmonary disease and clean cars are a critical part of the plan to protect Californians, said Newsom’s office.
“If upheld, President Trump’s illegal rollback of these regulations would cost Californian taxpayers an estimated $45 billion in health care costs,” stated the press release.
They say the regulations would also provide $91 billion in cumulative net relief and economic benefits to Californians between next year and 2040.
