Trump and Zeldin Announce Historic Deregulatory Action in U.S. History
On February 12, 2026, a significant regulatory shift occurred when U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin announced a groundbreaking deregulatory action. This initiative, which is now recognized as the most substantial deregulation in U.S. history, aims to remove restrictive regulations established during the previous Obama administration.
Historic Deregulatory Action Announced
During a press event held in the Roosevelt Room of the White House, Zeldin articulated the implications of the final rule. This derelict action abolishes the 2009 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Endangerment Finding, along with corresponding federal GHG emission standards for vehicles and engines from model years 2012 to 2027. The implementation of this rule translates to an estimated cost saving of over $1.3 trillion for American taxpayers.
Impact on Vehicle Regulations
The final rule further eliminates off-cycle credits, which incentivized manufacturers to implement unpopular features such as the start-stop technology. Zeldin emphasized that this measure restores consumer choice and lowers the cost of living by making vehicles more affordable for families across the nation.
- Estimated savings for American taxpayers: $1.3 trillion
- Average savings per vehicle: over $2,400
- Timeframe of affected vehicle models: 2012-2027
Public Input and Legal Considerations
The EPA’s deregulatory process was marked by an extensive engagement with the public. A 52-day comment period included four days of virtual public hearings, gathering insights from over 600 individuals. In total, the agency received approximately 572,000 comments, which significantly shaped the final rule.
The historical context surrounding the 2009 Endangerment Finding reflects a complex legal battle. The Obama administration’s interpretation of the Clean Air Act (CAA) has faced challenges from subsequent Supreme Court rulings. These rulings clarified the limited regulatory authority of the EPA concerning GHG emissions.
Restoration of Regulatory Authority
In its reassessment, the EPA determined that Section 202(a) of the CAA does not grant the authority to impose GHG emission standards in the manner previously executed. This decision underscores a commitment to adhering strictly to the law as it is written, rejecting previous interpretations that exceeded statutory intent.
Benefits of the New Rule
The recent deregulatory actions are expected to have broad-ranging effects on American consumers. By lowering compliance costs, new vehicles are projected to become more affordable, supporting the American Dream of mobility and economic opportunity. Families will have greater access to newer models that prioritize safety and environmental standards.
Conclusion
Overall, the Trump administration’s initiative to eliminate the GHG Endangerment Finding represents a watershed moment in U.S. regulatory policy. With significant cost savings and a renewed emphasis on consumer choice, this action aims to foster economic growth and restore autonomy to American families in their purchasing decisions.
