On April 29, 2025, the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) has called on New Jersey residents to urge Congress to revoke the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) decision made in December 2024. This decision allowed California to prohibit the sale of new gasoline, diesel, and traditional hybrid vehicles.
According to NJBIA, this regulation will affect around twelve states, which account for 35% of the U.S. population, as they may also adopt California's ban. This could result in a loss of vehicle choice for millions of Americans and lead to increased costs for families, posing a threat to jobs in the automotive and energy sectors.
The U.S. House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on Wednesday on legislation aimed at rescinding the waiver granted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under former President Joe Biden. This waiver permits California to require that 80% of vehicles sold be electric by 2035. The Senate is also expected to hold a vote on this matter in the future.
NJBIA Deputy Government Affairs Officer Ray Cantor emphasized, "We are asking as many New Jersey residents as possible to tell their Congressional representative to vote yes on a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn California’s gas car ban. This ban will have a major impact on New Jersey’s affordability crisis and it is not feasible given our lack of infrastructure."
Residents are encouraged to contact their federal representatives to express their position by using the Congressional Review Act.
