H.J.Res. 89 · 119th Congress · House
Providing congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "California State Motor Vehicle and Engine
Introduced 2025-04-02 · Sponsored by Rep. Obernolte, Jay [R-CA-23] (R-CA) · Last updated 2026-03-31
Last action (2025-06-12): Became Public Law No: 119-17.
Summary
Congress pulled the EPA waiver that let California impose its own tighter nitrogen oxide (NOX) limits on heavy-duty truck engines. California’s standards were significantly stricter than federal rules, meaning engine manufacturers had to build different versions for different states. This resolution forces a single national standard.
The Good
Blocks California's stricter nitrogen oxide standards for heavy-duty engines
California's Omnibus Low NOX regulation required significantly lower nitrogen oxide emissions from heavy-duty truck engines. Overturning the waiver prevents these standards from taking effect, reducing compliance costs for engine manufacturers and fleet operators.
Maintains a single national standard for engine manufacturers
Engine manufacturers prefer building to one standard rather than producing California-compliant and federal-compliant versions. A single standard simplifies production and reduces per-unit costs.
The Bad
Keeps NOX pollution higher in the most impacted communities
Nitrogen oxides from diesel trucks cause smog and respiratory disease, disproportionately affecting communities near highways and freight corridors. California developed the Omnibus regulation specifically because federal standards were insufficient to meet air quality targets in the state's most polluted areas.
Removes a regulation that had industry compliance pathways
The Omnibus regulation included phase-in periods and compliance flexibilities designed with manufacturer input. Engine makers had already begun developing compliant technology. Revoking the waiver wastes that R&D investment and slows the deployment of cleaner engines.
Vote Record
Senate, 2025-05-22
Passage (Senate)
Passed Congress.gov — Senate Roll Call #281
Senate vote by state
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House, 2025-04-30
Passage (House)
Passed Congress.gov — House Roll Call #112
House vote by state
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