The Western States Petroleum Association released the following statement today from WSPA President & CEO Catherine Reheis-Boyd in response to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) granting California’s request for a Clean Air Act waiver for the Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) Light- and Medium-Duty Vehicle Standards.

“The EPA’s decision to grant California’s waiver ignores the message voters sent loud and clear in November: affordability matters. California’s soaring energy costs and bans on gas-powered vehicles are by design. They are deliberate choices made by members of this administration who are disconnected from the struggles of everyday Californians. There is a better way to achieve climate goals, one that does not burden hardworking families or eliminate consumer choice. With new policymakers entering the California legislature this year, we are hopeful for a return to pragmatic policymaking that balances economic and environmental priorities.”