Environmental Protection Agency vs. California

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) challenged California’s stricter vehicle emission standards, which aimed to reduce air pollution more aggressively than federal rules. California argued it should be allowed to set its own standards due to its severe air quality issues, with federal approval. The EPA initially approved California’s standards but later sought to revoke that approval, asserting federal authority. The case involves balancing state innovation and public health priorities against federal regulatory power. Ultimately, the legal dispute centers on whether California can maintain its own environmental standards when they differ from or exceed federal regulations.