Moreno Bill Targets Emissions Rules, Incentivizes Domestic Production
Former auto dealer and recently elected U.S. Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) has introduced the Transportation Freedom Act, a bill that would repeal and revise federal emissions standards, disallow states from making their own rules and create tax incentives for automakers that employ U.S. workers.
First reported by Cleveland.com, the news follows an election night promise Moreno made to “overhaul” the automotive industry to end policies that force factories to build “cars people don’t want.”
“Thanks to liberal bureaucrats who want to mandate what cars Americans can drive, states like mine are riddled with car lots filled with expensive EVs people simply don’t want and dormant factories that once employed millions of American workers,” Moreno told Cleveland.com’s Sabrina Eaton. “The only winner is China.”
In its current form, the bill would immediately repeal existing fuel economy standards and create new ones within six months, with no provision for stricter standards at the state level. Automakers would earn a 200% tax deduction for each American auto worker’s wages (up to $150,000 per worker) if they keep production in the United States and don’t spend savings on stock buybacks, among other provisions.
The bill has already won support from several manufacturers and trade organizations, including the National Automobile Dealers Association. In a statement, NADA President and CEO Mike Stanton said the organization is in favor of a national emissions standard “that is achievable, affordable and maintains consumer vehicle choice.”
