Trump administration appeals ruling blocking EPA from sending California auto emissions rules to Congress

Key facts

• The Trump administration appealed a ruling that blocked the EPA from sending California's vehicle emissions rules to Congress.
• U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell ruled on Sept. 2 that the EPA improperly sent four waivers to Congress.
• The waivers concerned stricter emissions standards for vehicles and lawn-and-garden equipment.
• The EPA was ordered to take steps to restore the status quo before the June 12, 2026 press release regarding the waivers.

The Trump administration has appealed a federal court ruling that prevented the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from submitting California's vehicle emissions rules to Congress for a potential repeal. U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell ruled on September 2 that the EPA had acted improperly in June when it sent four waivers to Congress. These waivers included stricter emissions standards for cars, trucks, and lawn-and-garden equipment. The judge ordered the EPA to take necessary steps to restore the status quo that existed before the EPA's June 12, 2026 press release concerning these waivers. The additional source material indicates that the court denied motions to dismiss filed by the EPA and intervenors American Petroleum Institute and American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers, and granted California's motion for a preliminary injunction.