The Trump Administration is trying to undermine the fines that automakers pay if their cars do not meet fuel economy standards. Many times automakers miss the standards and pay a small amount. Several years ago, Congress and Obama administration raised these fines to make sure paying them isn’t just a cost of doing business. The new level of the fines means that paying them is no longer a sound business policy, and the automakers have to meet the fuel economy standards.
The fuel economy program (combined with the greenhouse gas program) for cars has been one of the most successful programs for reducing oil use, saving consumers money, and fighting climate change. This program is under attack by the Trump Administration, at the urging of Ford and the auto industry, who are working to roll back fines for missing the goals of the program. Now the automakers have a sympathetic ear in the White House, and these new fines are in jeopardy.
Make sure your voice is heard! Tell the Department of Transportation to keep these fines strong and enforce compliance with this vital program.