NRCM News Release
September 18, 2019 (Augusta, ME) – President Trump announced today he will attempt to block states, including Maine and a dozen others, which have adopted higher fuel efficiency standards for cars and trucks. The move is a desperate attempt to roll back clean car standards which are supported by the automobile industry and would ratchet up the efficiency of cars and trucks over time to curb air pollution, save drivers money, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
The Natural Resources Council of Maine released the following statement from Climate & Clean Energy Director Dylan Voorhees in response to today’s announcement:
“Today’s move by the Trump Administration would be a gross giveaway to the fossil fuel industry that will harm our children’s health and burden Maine’s drivers with costs they can’t afford. The proposal is illegal and harmful to Maine people and our environment, and we will join with others to do everything we can to stop it.
This proposal is a brazen attack on the right of states like Maine to make decisions that will reduce the pollution we breathe. The Clean Air Act, written and strengthened by Maine Senators Ed Muskie and George Mitchell, gives states the right to choose cleaner cars to protect their air quality and public health. Maine has long made that choice, which is now in jeopardy.
Cars and trucks are the leading source of climate change-causing pollution in the Northeast, and contribute to dirty air that leads to high asthma rates and other harmful health impacts. Increasing the fuel efficiency of cars and trucks is one of the most effective steps we can take to reduce harmful air pollution, save drivers money on gas, and encourage innovation and new jobs for the automotive sector.
The Trump Administration has proven once again they will stop at nothing to block effective, bipartisan climate solutions so that big oil companies can continue making billions. We urge Maine’s Congressional delegation, Governor Mills, and Attorney General Frey to continue defending increased fuel efficiency for cars and trucks that will save Mainers money and make the air we breathe cleaner for everyone.”
