New federal tailpipe pollution rules may run head-on into Delaware GOP efforts to halt Delaware adopting California emission standards that would lead to electrics and hybrids accounting for all new vehicle sales in 2035.
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control is now taking public comments on the proposal, with the final decision coming from DNREC Secretary Shawn Garvin.
This month, Delaware Republicans have been holding town halls around the state to mobilize opposition. Bills have been drafted but not yet introduced on limiting the authority of Garvin to approve the mandate.
Wednesday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released its proposed plan, which includes light and heavy vehicles. It is less restrictive than the California plan but if adopted, would lead to the bulk of new vehicles sold being EVs or hybrids.
Vehicle companies have shifted research and development spending toward hybrids and EVs and reported that 10% of sales are now coming from EVs. Meanwhile, market leader Tesla continues to cut prices on its aging line of electric cars.
Republican opposition has focused on the loss of freedom of choice, government mandates, the current cost of EVs, and the lack of charging stations.
Republicans face an uphill battle in passing state legislation, although polls have indicated that the majority of Delawareans oppose a 2035 mandate. Democrats control the General Assembly, and all statewide offices are held by Democrats, some of whom have voiced support for the California standards.
Republicans and others in Delaware and nationwide could also file lawsuits, a tactic that has been used before.
An earlier suit voided mail-in voting in Delaware, with the state’s high court ruling that the change required a Constitutional amendment.
Republicans had previously blocked a proposed mail-in amendment in the General Assembly.
President Joe Biden continues to champion electric vehicles built in the U.S. keys to improving the environment and bringing jobs back to the U.S.
Final rules on tax credits for EVs are expected to be released that, among other things, would require owners eligible for the tax breaks to buy a vehicle assembled in the U.S.
