Last Thursday, President Donald Trump signed three Congressional Review Acts (CRAs), effectively reversing California’s EV mandates and restoring greater consumer choice nationwide. In today’s episode of CBT Now, Lauren Fix, an automotive expert and founder of Car Coach Reports, joins the conversation to explain why the move is a significant win for consumer choice, as well as for dealers and manufacturers alike.
Fix credits three key figures for spearheading the effort: Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, and Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright. Their combined efforts pushed the resolution through both chambers of Congress, where it received bipartisan support.
The Congressional Review Act (CRA) enables Congress to review and overturn final rules issued by federal agencies. Once it successfully passes through Congress and is signed by the president, the rule is nullified and cannot be reissued in a similar form.
The three CRAs include:
- H.J. Res. 87: Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule
- H.J. Res. 88: Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulations
- H.J. Res. 89: Omnibus Low-NOx Emissions rule
The $7,500 federal EV tax credit is set to expire at the end of the year, along with the $1,250 charging credit and the $4,000 credit on used EVs. In addition, a $250 annual EV fee will be introduced to help fund road and bridge infrastructure.
"I think it's obvious. But, the truth is, this is a success and freedom for all Americans. There should be no one unhappy about this. Pick what you want. Everything's still going to be available."
Fix warns that the California Air Resources Board (CARB) is doubling down on its EV mandates at the state level. Beginning July 1, CARB will increase the state gas tax by $0.65 per gallon. This could drive gasoline prices as high as $8 per gallon by the end of 2026. The ripple effect will drive up the prices of everyday goods and services such as grocery delivery, takeout and e-commerce shipping. It also forces consumers to consider whether they can afford a gas-powered vehicle, unfairly influencing their choice.
A pending Supreme Court case may soon decide whether CARB retains the authority granted under previous administrations. If the court rules against it, the board’s power could be significantly diminished.
Fix underscores the importance of doing personal research, cautioning that mainstream media narratives can often be misleading. She emphasizes that the electric vehicle movement is environmentally damaging and politically driven. She points out that most EV battery materials are mined in the Congo, with 90% of those mining operations controlled by China. This would make the United States dependent on Chinese components and supply chains.
While some believe the rollback of EV mandates is harmful to the environment, Fix offers a different view. She notes that gas-powered vehicle components are largely reusable and recyclable, while significant portions of EV batteries are not, presenting long-term environmental challenges.
She also warns dealers to monitor how their OEM partners may shift their messaging and strategies. She cites General Motors as a prime example. Despite CEO Mary Barra’s past vocal support for an all-electric future, the company has now redirected its investments, committing $1.4 billion toward internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle plants. She also recommends dealers push back on OEM EV allocations, especially when inventory isn’t moving.
