Central ND News

On April 17, 2024, a bipartisan group of senators, including Senator John Hoeven, came together to oppose a rule proposed by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) that could have detrimental effects on the rail industry and the American economy. Led by Senator Pete Ricketts, the senators expressed concerns in a letter to Michael Regan, Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

In the letter, the senators highlighted that state-specific rules like those proposed by CARB could disrupt the national network's interoperability and harm the supply chain. They emphasized that CARB's goal of mandating the conversion of railroads to zero-emission locomotives could have severe repercussions. The senators warned that approving CARB's request could lead to financial strain on the railroads and jeopardize the supply chain by forcing the adoption of unproven technology.

The letter, co-signed by several senators including Shelley Moore Capito, Joe Manchin, and John Boozman, was supported by the Association of American Railroads (AAR) and the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA).

The senators stressed that the national rail network's efficiency and the movement of goods depend on the railroads, which represent a minimal percentage of transportation-sector greenhouse gas emissions. They argued that approving CARB's request could potentially lead to increased emissions if more shippers resort to truck-based transportation.

In conclusion, the senators urged the EPA to carefully consider the implications of approving CARB's waiver request on the environment, supply chain, and modal shift. They emphasized that the rail industry is crucial for the economy and that CARB's proposal exceeds the authority granted under the Clean Air Act.

The full text of the letter can be accessed through the provided link for more details on the senators' concerns and opposition to the California rule.