EPA Moves to Repeal Obama-Era Climate Rule Behind EV Mandate

• EPA proposes scrapping Obama-era Endangerment Finding
• Move could roll back all GHG vehicle regulations and lower costs
• Officials say change puts consumer choice and states’ rights first

The Environmental Protection Agency has unveiled a sweeping proposal to rescind the Obama-era Endangerment Finding, a pivotal climate rule that has underpinned greenhouse gas regulations for over a decade.

Speaking from a car dealership in Indianapolis, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the move would eliminate regulations he called “hidden taxes” and restore freedom to automakers and consumers. “With this proposal, the Trump EPA is proposing to end sixteen years of uncertainty for automakers and American consumers,” Zeldin said, claiming past administrations “twisted the law, ignored precedent, and warped science.”

The 2009 Endangerment Finding has been the legal foundation for broad federal limits on greenhouse gas emissions, including mandates requiring automakers to accelerate electric vehicle production. Zeldin argued that these policies have cost Americans up to $1 trillion in cumulative economic burden, while limiting consumer choice in the vehicle market.

If finalized, the proposal would remove federal greenhouse gas regulations for new vehicles and engines, including those affecting passenger cars, trucks, and commercial fleets. Zeldin said this would “allow Americans to purchase safe and affordable cars that best suit their families’ needs” and lower the cost of goods shipped by truck nationwide.

U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright backed the proposal, crediting the Trump administration for “returning to free and open dialogue around climate and energy policy – driving the focus back to following the data.” Indiana Governor Mike Braun echoed the sentiment, claiming that the Obama-Biden EPA “used regulations as a political tool and hurt American competitiveness without results to show for it.”

The American Trucking Association also praised the decision. CEO Chris Spear said the electric truck mandate was “a path to economic ruin,” warning it would have “crippled our supply chain, disrupted deliveries, and raised prices for American families and businesses.”

According to the EPA, the proposal is supported by new scientific assessments, including a Department of Energy study from its 2025 Climate Work Group that challenges key assumptions behind the original 2009 finding. A public comment period will now open as the EPA weighs the formal repeal.

The rollback is part of President Trump’s “Power the Great American Comeback” agenda, which includes energy deregulation, consumer affordability, and restoring states’ authority over climate rules. “This is a win for consumer choice, common sense, and American energy independence,” said Governor Braun.

The proposed repeal sets the stage for a major regulatory and legal battle, with environmental groups expected to challenge the move. For now, however, the White House is framing the decision as a defining step toward reshaping federal climate policy and reviving the American automotive sector.

If you enjoyed this article, be sure to follow us on Microsoft Start.