Bill Overturning Emission Standards Clears Congress, Risks Veto

A joint resolution preventing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from implementing stricter emission standards for trucks has cleared Congress, on its way to an expected presidential veto. 

The measure, which “disapproves” the EPA’s proposed rules cracking down on emission standards for heavy-duty vehicles, was passed on a 221-203 vote in the House on May 23, congressional records show. It had already squeaked through the Senate on a 50-49 vote in late April. 

It now goes to the president’s desk, where it faces a likely veto, something the White House has threatened to do since the Senate cleared the measure. 

The proposed standards, announced April 12, are the third phase of the EPA’s Clean Trucks Plan, which takes effect with model year 2027.    

Specifically, the new rules target nitrogen oxides, along with carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. They also require manufacturers to increase the emissions-related warranty periods for heavy-duty vehicles.