Providing Congressional Disapproval of the Rule Submitted By the Environmental Protection Agency Relating to ``California State Motor Vehicle and Engine Pollution Control Standards; Advanced Clean Cars Ii; Waiver of Preemption; Notice of Decision''

Floor Speech

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Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in opposition to H.J. Res. 88.

It shouldn't be controversial to say that air pollution is dangerous. Every year, particulate-matter pollution kills more than 50,000 Americans. Study after study has linked air pollution to higher rates of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, cognitive decline, and, of course, respiratory conditions. The evidence is overwhelming that clean air saves lives.

If my colleagues are like me and grew up in California, then Members know the impacts of air pollution. I remember what it felt like to breathe smog and particulate pollution before we had the strong pollution standards that we have today.

In California, we have been dealing with the impacts of air pollution for a long time. California's unique geography, with its valleys, coastal basins, and surrounding mountain ranges, creates natural barriers that trap pollutants and contribute to unique air pollution challenges. As a State, we have long recognized the dangers of air pollution, and we have been a pioneer in addressing the root causes.

In fact, California's efforts to control air pollution predate Federal efforts in 1967. In 1967, California was the first State to establish a State air pollution control agency. The country soon followed with the Clean Air Act of 1970, which created the EPA and established the First national air pollution standards.

In light of California's unique air pollution challenges and our State's early leadership in tackling air pollution, the Clean Air Act grants California the authority to set its own stronger vehicle emission standards. Over the last 50 years, California has used this authority more than 100 times to update and strengthen our pollution standards, and these actions have actually saved countless lives across California.

Yet, this resolution would strip California's rights to manage deadly air pollutants within our own State, stripping away our right to protect ourselves. Why? Why are Republicans trying to degrade California's air quality? It is my constituents, my neighbors, and my fellow Sacramentans who will suffer if Republicans succeed in killing California's emission standards.

Mr. Speaker, I ask again: Why are Republicans willing to put the health and safety of our communities at risk? I think the real answer is that California's leadership helps to support automotive innovation. The catalytic converter and electric car are thanks to California's visionary leadership and re-imagining a future without air pollution.

Mr. Speaker, the oil industry is afraid of electric vehicles. Once again, Republicans are doing the bidding of oil lobbyists. Once again, the majority is on the wrong side of history, fighting to hold back the future for as long as they can. It is shameful and indefensible.

Mr. Speaker, for this reason, I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on H.J. Res. 88.

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