Press Release

For Immediate Release

OOIDA applauds Senate joint resolution

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) praised the U.S. Senate for passing three joint resolutions that block EPA waivers, preventing California from enforcing its own vehicle emissions standards. The resolutions effectively halt the state’s plans, including its mandate to phase out the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035.

The Senate passed a joint resolution with a 51-44 vote that nullifies the EPA waiver issued in the final weeks of the Biden administration, clearing the way for California to implement strict regulations on gasoline vehicles. Sen. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., joined all Republicans in supporting the resolution under the Congressional Review Act (CRA). The Senate also passed resolutions to nullify California’s stricter nitrogen oxide engine emissions standards and its rules on heavy-duty vehicle emissions, with no Democratic votes in favor of the latter two resolutions.

OOIDA joins the trucking industry in applauding Congress’ decision to block California’s electric vehicle mandate, which the association believes would have imposed undue burdens on small-business truckers. The resolutions represent a crucial step in safeguarding the viability and affordability of trucking operations nationwide.

Todd Spencer, President of OOIDA, expressed his support for the resolution, stating, “Setting national policy is the responsibility of Congress, not California. It’s no wonder small-business truckers have left the state in droves to find better opportunities elsewhere. For OOIDA members, vehicle reliability and affordability are critical. So far, there is no convincing evidence that electric commercial motor vehicles are a viable option for small-business truckers given the high costs and inadequate charging infrastructure. Additionally, CARB’s overreaching Omnibus NOx rules have already raised prices on new vehicles and increased maintenance costs for trucks currently on the road. OOIDA and our 150,000 members applaud the efforts by leaders in Congress to protect small-business truckers nationwide from California’s regulatory encroachments.”