Ada Reporter

U.S. Congressmen Russ Fulcher and Tim Walberg have introduced the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act, aimed at preventing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from enforcing vehicle emissions regulations that mandate specific technologies or restrict vehicle availability based on engine type.

"Consumer choice must be what dictates any future market transition to electric vehicles—not the federal government by mandate," stated Congressman Fulcher. He expressed pride in collaborating with Congressman Walberg to reintroduce the CARS Act, which seeks to prohibit EPA-imposed vehicle emissions regulations like those proposed under the Biden administration. Fulcher emphasized that the bill supports a diverse approach to fuel options while acknowledging significant emissions reductions over time, allowing for consumer choice in vehicle fuel types.

Congressman Walberg highlighted the need for stability in the automotive industry following President Trump's reversal of an electric vehicle mandate imposed by the Biden-Harris administration. "The CARS Act will prevent future unrealistic government mandates from being imposed on auto manufacturers and consumers," said Walberg. He argued against creating regulations that limit consumer choice, increase vehicle costs for families, and risk America's automotive leadership and jobs shifting to China. Instead, he advocated for innovation as a guiding force in the industry's future.

The CARS Act aims to ensure consumer freedom in choosing vehicles that best suit their needs without regulatory constraints limiting these choices.

Background information reveals that on March 20, 2024, the EPA finalized a rule titled "Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles." This rule established stringent emissions standards for pollutants and greenhouse gases, projecting that around 56% of new vehicles sold between 2030 and 2032 would need to be electric.

Concerns were raised about affordable vehicle accessibility for average American consumers. Research from CRES Forum indicated that most electric vehicle owners have household incomes exceeding $100,000, representing only about 31% of U.S. households. Additionally, supply chain shortages have driven up EV prices further.

On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order eliminating the electric vehicle mandate and promoting consumer choice by revoking President Biden's previous executive order from August 5, 2021. This earlier order aimed to ensure half of all new vehicles sold in the U.S. by 2030 were electric.