EPA officially revokes Obama-era endangerment finding. Here is what that will change
By Easton Martin | February 12, 2025
The Environmental Protection Agency finalized a rule on Thursday to revoke the 2009 endangerment finding, a move that administration officials say will catalyze economic growth and significantly reduce the financial burden on American households. By rescinding the scientific and legal determination that greenhouse gases endanger public health, the agency has effectively removed the primary mandate for federal regulation of carbon dioxide and methane emissions under the Clean Air Act.
Administrator Lee Zeldin characterized the decision as a vital step toward restoring energy independence and eliminating unnecessary regulatory hurdles. The shift is expected to provide immediate relief to the automotive sector by repealing stringent emissions standards for light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles. White House estimates suggest the removal of these mandates could save consumers approximately $2,400 per new vehicle, while the broader repeal of climate-related red tape is projected to save the American public nearly $1.3 trillion in total.
Proponents of the reversal argue that the previous regulations artificially inflated costs and restricted consumer choice in the vehicle market. By returning to a more flexible regulatory framework, the administration aims to bolster the domestic manufacturing sector and allow companies to focus on innovation rather than compliance with federal climate targets.
The EPA has noted that this transition will prioritize affordable energy and help maintain the nation’s competitive edge in the global market. While the move marks a significant departure from previous environmental policy, officials emphasized that the focus remains on a robust economy that benefits all citizens through lower prices and increased productivity.
