Columbia Energy Exchange

California’s Clean Air Conundrum

Jun 24, 2025
Mary Nichols, a distinguished environmental lawyer and former chair of the California Air Resources Board, discusses California's pivotal role in clean air regulation. She delves into the recent congressional move to revoke emissions waivers, marking a significant political challenge. Nichols explains the historical journey of California's fight against air pollution and how its strict standards influence other states. The conversation also covers the auto industry's response, the future of zero-emission vehicles, and the broader implications for climate action in America.
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ANECDOTE

Early Smog Litigation Anecdote

  • Mary Nichols began her career working with the city of Riverside to challenge smog from Los Angeles in the 1970s.
  • She used the Clean Air Act to push federal EPA to develop a plan when California's plan was inadequate.
INSIGHT

California's Unique Emission Waiver

  • California secured a unique Clean Air Act waiver allowing stricter vehicle emission standards.
  • This waiver was won to maintain California's prior regulations and is supported politically across parties.
INSIGHT

Other States Adopt California Standards

  • About a dozen states follow California's stricter vehicle emission standards.
  • These adopting states believe California's regulations are feasible and improve urban air quality.
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