Amendment to preserve the MPCA's authority to propose new Clean Car standards by deleting provision in SF 4499
Emissions from cars and trucks are the number one source of climate pollution in Minnesota.
In addition to contributing to climate change, gasoline and diesel vehicles emit particulate matter into our air. Every year in Minnesota, poor air quality contributes to 2,000 to 4,000 premature deaths, 500 hospitalizations, and 800 emergency room visits. And these impacts are not distributed equally. Children, the elderly, economically disadvantaged communities, and communities of color pay disproportionately for the costs of pollution.
Automakers have announced plans for over 300 models of electric vehicles, including many crossover vehicles, SUVs, and pick-up trucks. However, in Minnesota, only about half of the electric vehicles on the market are available for sale. Minnesota car buyers have limited electric vehicle options because automakers have prioritized states that have adopted advanced Clean Car Standards.
In 2019, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) began collecting public input to develop clean cars standards for Minnesota that would reduce carbon emissions for new cars and give consumers more choices in purchasing low or zero emission vehicles.
However, SF 4499 included a provision repealing the MPCA’s authority to propose new clean car standards. An amendment was offered deleting this section and preserving the MPCA’s ability to propose clean car standards.
