Trump terminates California's nation-leading emissions standards

(NewsNation) — President Donald Trump signed three resolutions into law on Thursday revoking California's vehicle emissions standards, which he described as having "dictatorial powers to control the future" of the car industry.

The measures include blocking California’s first-in-the-nation rule banning the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035.

Other changes outlined in the resolution include overturning state policies on tailpipe emissions in trucks, nitrogen oxide pollution in trucks and the sale of medium- and high-duty diesel vehicles, per The Associated Press.

"Today, we're saving California and we're saving our entire country form a disaster," Trump said. "Your cars are going to be thousands of dollars less money."

Congress approved the resolution in May. On Thursday, Trump thanked the lawmakers involved in its passage, adding: "I want to congratulate you all, the Senate, the House, the whole thing."

California Gov. Gavin Newsome posted on X that he planned to sue, calling the resolutions illegal. "He’s destroying our public health and America’s global competitiveness in the process," Newsom wrote.

Despite disparaging remarks about electric vehicles — including a claim that auto makers are "making you buy stuff that doesn't work" — Trump said, "I'm all for electric cars."

The series of bills are the latest move in a long saga between Trump and California’s emissions control goals. During his first term, Trump revoked California’s ability to enforce its standards. President Joe Biden reinstated it in 2022.

The signing also comes as the president pushes for the passage of his "big, beautiful bill," which eliminates incentives for electric vehicles.

"Now I know why Elon doesn't like me so much," Trump said. "Which he does, actually, he does."

“Today’s historic bill signing is a major victory for American consumers, manufacturers and U.S. energy security. We thank President Trump and Congress for delivering on their promise to put an end to these extreme mandates and ensure every American can choose the vehicle that’s best for them," American Petroleum Institute President and CEO Mike Sommers said in a statement.

In a statement, General Motors also praised the signing: "We have long advocated for one national standard that will allow us to stay competitive, continue to invest in U.S. innovation, and offer customer choice across the broadest lineup of gas-powered and electric vehicles."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.