Carper Statement on Automakers’ Letter Calling for 50 State Solution on Fuel Economy Rule

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.), top Democrat on the Environment and Public Works Committee (EPW), released the following statement today on the letter sent by more than a dozen automakers to President Trump, in which they wrote, “We strongly believe the best path to preserve good auto jobs and keep new vehicles affordable for more Americans is a final [fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions] rule supported by all parties—including California.”

“For almost two years now, I’ve spoken with almost every automaker about the administration’s proposal – and each and every one of those automakers has told me repeatedly that they want the administration to strike a deal with California on fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions standards.

“While it is not unhelpful that the automobile industry sent this letter, we are now in the eleventh hour, and I fear it won’t be long before the rubber meets the road and the administration’s reckless rollback is finalized.

“I urge automakers to clearly, strongly and immediately voice their opposition to this deeply flawed proposal and work directly with California to ensure regulatory certainty and continued improvements in the fuel efficiency of our cars and SUVs.”

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