Southwest Montana News

This week, Congressman Matt Rosendale (R-MT) has joined forces with Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Ted Cruz (R-TX), along with over 120 other colleagues, to voice their opposition to the proposed Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards for passenger cars and light-duty trucks. In a letter addressed to U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman, they are calling for the withdrawal of these standards, which would require automakers to significantly increase average fleet-wide fuel economy within a decade.

The lawmakers argue that these proposed standards do not comply with federal law and would effectively force the mass production of electric vehicles (EVs) while phasing out gas-powered cars and trucks. They believe that Americans should have the freedom to choose the vehicles that best suit their needs and budgets, rather than having the federal government dictate their choices.

Rep. Rosendale, in his statement, emphasizes the importance of fossil fuel-powered vehicles in regions with harsh winter weather conditions, such as Montana. He states, "Fossil fuel-powered vehicles are the only reliable form of transportation during winter weather in Montana." He goes on to express his concern that the Biden administration's push for green policies, similar to the controversial Green New Deal, would benefit a select few while leaving taxpayers to bear the burden.

This letter reflects the growing resistance among conservative lawmakers towards the Biden administration's environmental agenda. Critics argue that the proposed EV mandate and stringent fuel economy standards would result in job losses and increased costs for consumers. They also raise concerns about the practicality and reliability of EVs, particularly in areas with limited charging infrastructure.

As the debate over the future of transportation continues, it remains to be seen how the Biden administration will respond to this letter and the concerns raised by Rep. Rosendale and his colleagues. The balance between environmental sustainability and individual choice will undoubtedly be a key point of contention moving forward.