If adopted, Minnesota would become the first Midwestern state to set clean energy standards for passenger vehicles
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tuesday of this week, Rep. Dean Phillips (MN-03) delivered a letter to Minnesota Administrative Law Judge Jessica Palmer-Denig advocating for the proposed Minnesota Clean Cars rule, which would reduce pollution and ensure that Minnesotans have access to zero-emissions vehicles.
Last December, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency announced new rules that would increase the number of electric cars and other vehicles that do not emit greenhouse gases delivered to Minnesota. The regulations would also set a fuel-efficiency standard for new vehicles, in line with the national standard established during the Obama administration. If approved by Judge Palmer-Denig, the Clean Cars rule would go into effect in 2024.
“It’s time for Minnesota to be a leader for climate action and clean energy in our region and country,” said Rep. Phillips. “The Clean Car rule would tackle the greatest source of greenhouse gas emissions in our state—preserving public health and saving Minnesotan taxpayers billions of dollars in the process. I urge the speedy adoption of these new standards.”
According to a recent report from the Pollution Control Agency and Department of Commerce, the transportation sector is the largest source of carbon pollution in Minnesota. By cutting pollution and reducing fuel expenses, the Clean Cars rule would save Minnesota over $9 billion by 2040.