EPA repeal plan shifts Obama-era climate policy in a new direction

EPA repeal challenges the 2009 endangerment finding and could reshape future emissions rules for vehicles and engines.

On July 29, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a new plan to change how the government handles climate rules. The EPA repeal would cancel the 2009 Endangerment Finding. That rule said greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane are dangerous to people and the environment.

This change could affect how trucks, cars, and other vehicles are regulated. The original rule allowed the EPA to create limits on emissions. Now, the agency wants to remove that power.

EPA Repeal Would End Emissions Rules for Trucks

If the EPA repeal is approved, the government would no longer set climate-related emission limits for trucks and engines. That means manufacturers would not have to meet federal rules on greenhouse gas emissions.

The EPA says this move could save the country up to $54 billion each year. Officials say the old rules were expensive and made it harder for companies to grow. The repeal would still keep rules that limit harmful air pollutants like nitrogen oxides.

Why the EPA Repeal Is Happening

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin explained why the agency is pushing for this change. He said the Clean Air Act does not clearly give the EPA power to regulate climate change. He also said the science used back in 2009 may no longer be reliable.

Zeldin believes that these climate rules hurt businesses and slow down innovation. The agency announced the EPA repeal at an event in Indiana with support from lawmakers and business leaders.

Trucking Industry Supports EPA Proposal

The trucking industry strongly supports the EPA repeal. Groups like the American Trucking Associations say the rules for emissions have raised costs and made things harder for truck makers and drivers.

Leaders in Indiana, such as Governor Mike Braun and Representative Jim Baird, said the repeal will protect jobs and help small businesses. They believe this change will make it easier for companies to operate and grow.

Not Everyone Agrees with the EPA Repeal

Environmental groups are pushing back against the EPA repeal. They say climate change is real and that greenhouse gases are harmful. Groups like the Natural Resources Defense Council believe removing these rules will make the air dirtier and increase health risks.

Legal experts are also concerned. They point to a 2007 Supreme Court decision that said the EPA does have the power to regulate greenhouse gases. Because of that, many believe the repeal will be challenged in court.

What Happens Next with the EPA Proposal

The EPA repeal is only a proposal right now. It is not final. The public can share opinions until September 21, 2025, during the open comment period. The EPA will also hold online public hearings on August 19 and 20, with another possible session on August 21.

After that, the EPA may decide to move forward with the rule in 2026. However, many experts expect lawsuits that could delay or block the rule from taking effect.

What the EPA Repeal Means for Trucking

In the near future:

• No new climate rules for trucks and engines
• Fewer costs for truck makers and fleets
• Less paperwork for companies

Looking ahead:

• Some states, like California, may keep their own strict rules
• New court rulings could change what happens next
• The next presidential administration may reverse the decision

People who support the EPA repeal say it brings fairness and saves money. Those against it say it harms the environment and weakens important protections.

Summary

The EPA repeal would cancel a major rule from 2009 that helped limit greenhouse gas emissions. This change could remove the EPA’s power to set future climate rules for trucks, cars, and engines. While many in the trucking industry support the repeal, others worry it will cause more pollution and lead to legal fights. For now, the public still has time to give input before the agency makes a final decision.