While no one is looking, environmental standards are being eviscerated

Fuel emission standards for cars and trucks were rolled back last week. At a time when the nation should be reducing its carbon footprint, the new Trump standard will do just the opposite.

April 7, 2020 - 10:09 AM

Under the new rule, automakers will be spared from complying with tougher car pollution standards enacted under the Obama administration. Pictured, traffic on the 101 Freeway in Los Angeles. Photo by (Al Seib/Los Angeles Times/TNS)

Last week, the administration of Donald Trump released fuel-efficiency standards for cars and trucks, severely weakening rules put in place in 2012 by the Obama administration.

It is a victory for the oil and gas industry. It is a defeat for the future of our planet.

The Obama rules required automakers to increase fuel efficiency across their fleets by 5% annually, reaching an average of 54 miles per gallon by 2025. The Trump rules roll that back to 1.5% annually, with a target of 40 miles per gallon by 2026.

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