Congressmen John Moolenaar, Jay Obernolte, and Craig Goldman have introduced the LOCOMOTIVES Act. The legislation aims to limit California’s ability to impose strict regulations on trains entering the state. It proposes changes to Section 209 of the Clean Air Act, addressing a loophole that allows California to request waivers from the Environmental Protection Agency for stricter environmental standards than those set by the federal government.
Moolenaar emphasized the importance of railway access for industries, stating: “Nearly every industry relies on railway to ship their goods and access markets across the world.” He expressed concern over California’s ability to override federal standards and disrupt Michigan’s economy.
Obernolte criticized California’s emissions mandates, noting their potential impact on interstate commerce. “California should not be hijacking national freight policy with unreasonable emissions mandates,” he said. He praised CARB for withdrawing its request but supported the LOCOMOTIVES Act as a preventive measure against future actions.
Goldman highlighted Texas’ reliance on railways and opposed unnecessary restrictions that could disrupt commerce. He stated: “As railways continue to serve as a cost-effective and reliable means of transporting goods, California’s extreme green energy regulations will prevent most locomotives from operating within the state.”
The LOCOMOTIVES Act has garnered support from several organizations including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Association of American Railroads. Chuck Baker from the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association applauded Moolenaar’s leadership in preventing state regulation that could harm small business freight railroads.
Ian Jefferies, President of AAR, noted: “Railroads remain the most fuel-efficient way to move goods over land.” He stressed that no zero-emissions locomotives are currently available commercially despite claims by CARB.
Sarah Wiltfong from the Supply Chain Federation emphasized regulatory consistency provided by reinforcing federal authority over locomotive emissions. She remarked on potential disruptions caused by varied state-level standards.
In 2023, CARB sought an EPA waiver prohibiting older trains unless configured for zero emissions; however, this was withdrawn last year. Despite this withdrawal, similar requests can be resubmitted at any time.
