FreedomWorks Statement in Response to the Deal Struck Between California and Auto Manufacturers on Emission Standards

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In response to California’s deal with Ford, BMW, Volkswagen, and Honda on emissions standards, Adam Brandon, FreedomWorks President, made the following comment:

“California currently has no authority to strike such an agreement with automakers on emissions standards. Automakers cannot afford to produce ‘red-state cars’ and ‘blue-state cars’ for its customers. Therefore, the most stringent standards will effectively govern the nation. We cannot allow lawmakers in California to set policy that will adversely impact millions of Americans outside their jurisdiction.

“Article I of the Constitution gives the federal government limited enumerated powers. One of those is the ability to regulate interstate commerce. The federal government has a duty to pre-empt California’s attempt to usurp authority that was expressly delegated to the U.S. Congress. Creating a patchwork of regulations for businesses will only mean more red tape and regulatory costs for Americans everywhere.”