The Energy and Commerce Committee has announced via social media platform X that it has demanded California cease enforcement of its de facto electric vehicle (EV) mandate, urging compliance with federal law.
According to an August 11 press release from the committee, Chairman Brett Guthrie, along with Chairmen Gary Palmer and John Joyce, sent a formal letter to the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The letter claims that the state is unlawfully enforcing a de facto EV mandate. It argues that CARB’s actions undermine federal authority by requiring auto manufacturers to adhere to regulations nullified by Congress through the Congressional Review Act. The committee suggests that California’s approach could increase costs for consumers, strain the electrical grid, and heighten reliance on foreign supply chains, particularly from China.
On August 15, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced it had filed two lawsuits against California. These lawsuits challenge the state's enforcement of stricter emissions standards for trucks and EV sales mandates. According to Reuters, the DOJ contends these rules were voided when Congress repealed Environmental Protection Agency waivers under the Congressional Review Act. Despite this repeal, California continued to pressure manufacturers to comply. Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson said that the department was acting to "restore the rule of law."
In addition to the DOJ’s lawsuits, four major truck manufacturers—Daimler Truck, Volvo Group, Paccar, and Navistar—filed suit in Sacramento federal court against California’s Clean Truck Partnership. As reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, these companies argue they are being forced to comply with conflicting state and federal requirements. This situation creates uncertainty and financial risks for long-term investment planning. The manufacturers assert their support for emissions reductions but believe California’s unilateral mandates threaten regulatory consistency across the national marketplace.
The House Committee on Energy and Commerce is noted as being established in 1795 and is recognized as the oldest standing committee in the U.S. House of Representatives. According to its official history, it has broad jurisdiction over areas including energy policy, environmental regulation, healthcare, telecommunications, consumer protection, and interstate commerce. Currently chaired by Representative Brett Guthrie of Kentucky, it plays a central role in shaping national policy and overseeing executive branch actions affecting the U.S. economy and regulatory framework.
