California Seeks New Air Pollution Tactics as Federal Rules Are Stripped

California is scrambling to curb air pollution after the Trump administration and Congress revoked the state’s authority to enforce stricter vehicle emission rules. Seven key regulations—including bans on gas-powered cars and diesel trucks—have been overturned, weakening California’s clean-air efforts.

Public backlash, legal challenges, and lost federal incentives have further eroded support for aggressive policies. In response, state officials are pursuing alternative approaches like voluntary deals, incentives, and indirect source rules.

Home to some of the nation’s worst air, especially in the Los Angeles Basin and San Joaquin Valley, California faces rising health risks—particularly for low-income communities near highways and ports. Without its long-standing Clean Air Act waiver, the state must now find new ways to target major pollution sources: gas vehicles and diesel trucks.

08-07-2025