fuel economy

Government agencies have released a proposal to freeze fuel economy and emissions requirements for six years. The proposed rules would also block California from setting its own, higher standards.

The EPA has announced a six-year freeze in fuel efficiency standards with no exceptions for states to set their own standards. It is a rebuke for California, which along with at least a dozen other states, has higher fuel standards than the national requirements. Under Obama administration rules, fuel efficiency standards would have increased over time.

California is leading a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration's plan to weaken car emissions standards. EPA chief Scott Pruitt says the rules, designed to fight climate change, are too strict.

The EPA is rejecting landmark fuel efficiency rules for automobiles, a key part of President Obama's efforts to address climate change. The move could lead to another legal battle with California.