Trump targets ‘holy grail’ of climate regulation in trillion-dollar rollback

TLDR:

• Trump administration will rescind 2009 finding that greenhouse gases endanger public health, eliminating foundation for federal climate regulation
• Move could save businesses $1 trillion over decade while ending forced shift to electric vehicles by 2030
• Democrats and environmental groups warn of increased asthma, extreme weather, and economic shockwaves
• Repeal targets vehicle emissions but could open door to rolling back power plant regulations

The Trump administration this week will repeal a 2009 scientific finding that has served as the foundation for federal greenhouse gas regulation for more than a decade, setting up a major battle over America’s environmental and economic future.

The Endangerment Finding, established early in President Obama’s first term, designated six greenhouse gases including carbon dioxide and methane as hazards to public health. Known as “the holy grail of climate change religion,” it gave the federal government extensive authority to regulate emissions.

EPA Director Lee Zeldin said rescinding the finding would save businesses and individuals $1 trillion over the next 10 years. The move would end Biden-era tailpipe emission caps that forced automakers to shift from gas-powered vehicles to primarily electric models by 2030.

Car manufacturers have struggled as EVs sit unsold on dealer lots while consumers prefer hybrids and gas-powered vehicles.

Environmental groups are preparing lawsuits. The Sierra Club called it “a massive blow to efforts to rein in this pollution and slow down planetary heating.”

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called the move “radical,” warning it “will hurt kids with asthma” and destabilize insurance markets as extreme weather worsens.

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• Trump to rescind ‘holy grail’ climate change regulation