California officials are preparing to take legal action against the federal government after the U.S. Senate voted to reverse a federal waiver that allowed the state to set its own vehicle emissions standards, including its plan to gradually phase out gas-powered cars by 2035.

The Senate’s vote effectively nullifies a waiver previously granted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which gave California the authority to pursue stricter emissions policies than the federal government. This waiver was a cornerstone of California’s environmental and transportation strategy and played a key role in the state’s electric vehicle (EV) transition plan.

Governor Gavin Newsom called the vote “illegal” and vowed to challenge the decision in court, describing it as a reversal of decades of environmental progress. State Attorney General Rob Bonta echoed the governor’s statement, saying that the move undermines California’s ability to address pollution and climate concerns.

The waiver, originally approved during the Biden administration, permitted California to require that all new car sales in the state be zero-emission vehicles by 2035. It also included interim targets, such as a 35% electric vehicle sales benchmark by 2026. Supporters argue the policy is critical for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting public health.

Opponents of the mandate, however, say the rules are overly aggressive and could disrupt the auto industry and increase costs for consumers. They also argue that allowing individual states to set their own emission rules creates inconsistency and places unnecessary burdens on vehicle manufacturers.

Republican lawmakers who backed the Senate’s vote voiced concerns about the broader implications of the EV mandate. They criticized the plan as unrealistic, especially for rural communities and industries that rely heavily on traditional vehicles. Some also raised questions about the feasibility of meeting EV infrastructure demands and the availability of affordable electric models.

Despite the Senate’s vote, the case may ultimately be decided in the courts. California has a long history of setting its own air quality standards under special provisions in the federal Clean Air Act—a practice that has often survived legal challenges.

Legal experts suggest that the outcome of this case could influence not just California’s environmental strategy, but also how much autonomy states have in setting their own climate and transportation policies moving forward.

As the legal process unfolds, both sides remain firm in their positions, with California defending its environmental leadership and opponents pushing for more uniform national standards.