New Hampshire Senators Stand Against California’s Gas-Powered Car Ban
In a decisive move, both of New Hampshire’s senators, Maggie Hassan and Jeanne Shaheen, voted against a resolution aimed at overturning California’s ban on the sale of gas-powered cars, contributing to an overall 0-4 record for the state’s congressional delegation on this heated issue. The resolution, passed by the GOP-controlled Senate with unanimous Democratic opposition, is headed for President Trump’s signature, which will revoke an EPA waiver allowing California to enforce its policy requiring only electric vehicles (EVs) to be sold by 2035.
Advocates of free markets celebrated the Senate’s decision, with Daren Bakst from the Competitive Enterprise Institute stating that the Resolution stops California’s ambitious plans, which could have national repercussions given that 11 other states and D.C. had committed to similar bans. Notably, EVs account for less than one percent of registered vehicles in New Hampshire, highlighting the skepticism surrounding these mandates.
On the other hand, proponents of green policies argue that such regulations are critical for a transition to zero-emission vehicles. American Energy Alliance President Thomas Pyle criticized the perceived overreach of California and the Biden administration, asserting a need to protect consumer choice.
Meanwhile, as support for EV mandates wanes even in traditionally liberal states like Massachusetts, where enforcement of EV sales requirements has softened, legal challenges are anticipated. California Attorney General Rob Bonta plans to sue, arguing that the Senate’s resolution undermines essential consumer freedoms. As this debate unfolds, it highlights the ongoing conflict between environmental initiatives and individual liberties across states.
This article originally appeared in the NH Journal, devoted to unbiased political reporting in New Hampshire. For more insights, visit NHJournal.com.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
