WASHINGTON (Dec. 6, 2023)—The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) today applauded Congressional efforts to enact a provision included in the Fiscal Year 2024 Interior-Environment Appropriations bill to prevent taxpayer funding from being used to finalize, implement, administer or enforce the EPA’s proposed emissions standards that would effectively require 67.5% of all new vehicles sold be fully electric by 2032. 

On Wednesday, 223 Members of Congress publicly released a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) urging enactment of language to impose a one-year stay on the EPA using funds to finalize or implement its unrealistic 67.5% EV mandate. The bill also includes language stopping EPA’s “Phase 3” heavy-duty truck rule (Zero Emission Vehicle Mandates) for one year. 

“We strongly oppose the EPA’s misguided attempt to force the production of a vehicle mix that fails to meet the transportation needs or fit within the budgets of American families,” wrote the Members of Congress, led by Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.). “The EPA mandate would also radically reshape America’s auto industry and the types of vehicles in America’s driveways. Battery electric vehicles may or may not be the right choice for everyone. If required to haul, drive long distances in areas without charging infrastructure or live in a colder climate, a fully battery electric vehicle may not meet the needs of our constituents.” 

“Americans – not the government – should be able to choose which vehicle is right for them,” the letter added.

NADA lauded the efforts of Rep. McClain and her colleagues.

“America’s franchised dealers have invested $6 billion in EV infrastructure. While we share the goal of lowering greenhouse gas emissions, the EPA’s proposed rule goes too far too fast. Apart from the lack of charging infrastructure, EPA’s EV mandate will significantly reduce consumer choice and make vehicles less affordable,” said NADA President and CEO Mike Stanton. “Rep. McClain’s common-sense leadership is a much needed reality check to stop a policy that will hurt working families.” 

The EPA’s proposed rule is expected to be finalized next year. NADA filed comments opposing the rule, which can be found here. NADA also supports the “Choice in Automobile Retail Sales” (CARS) Act (H.R. 4468), which permanently prohibits the EPA from finalizing, implementing, or enforcing the proposed rule. H.R. 4468 is scheduled to be debated by the House later today.