Lawmakers from both political parties are urging the EPA to intervene and prevent the implementation of a California regulation that would prohibit diesel-powered trains by 2030.
While the rule specifically targets trains older than 23 years, critics argue that its ramifications would extend far beyond. They contend that the ban could disrupt the agricultural sector and have adverse effects on the overall economy.
Although the implementation of the plan has faced challenges, the EPA is currently deliberating on whether to grant a waiver that would enable the California regulation to proceed as intended.
Senator Pete Ricketts of Nebraska is among those urging the EPA to reconsider this decision, emphasizing that it would not only impact rail operations within California but also have broader implications across North America.
Ricketts raises concerns about the feasibility of relying on unproven technology for achieving zero-emissions locomotives, warning that such a mandate could jeopardize the stability of the supply chain.