PROVIDENCE, RI - Governor Gina M. Raimondo released the following statement today in response to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt's decision to initiate rulemaking that would weaken national greenhouse gas standards for cars and light trucks.
"A strong, national program for the fuel efficiency and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from light duty vehicles is vital for providing consumers with the fuel and cost saving choices that they need to access jobs, education, healthcare and economic opportunity. I am deeply concerned that yesterday's decision could lead to a weakening of that program, and strongly support our colleagues in California as they explore the potential use of key authorities under the Clean Air Act that enable states to protect our ongoing progress towards more efficient cars that save consumers money and reduce dangerous greenhouse gas emissions in our air. I hope that, as this process develops into specific policy options through the rulemaking process, federal agencies can reach an agreement with California that protects these important priorities."
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