Washington - The Washington State Department of Ecology has paused its plan for new vehicle emission standards for at least six months. This decision follows recent federal action impacting similar rules in California.

Last month, the Senate blocked California's rule banning the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. Washington and Oregon had planned to adopt this zero-emission rule as well.

The department stated that Washington has legal limits on greenhouse gas emissions through 2025, which cannot be met without addressing transportation. Transportation is the biggest single source of greenhouse gas emissions in the state.

The department will collaborate with state legislature partners to develop a strategy for addressing emission policies ahead of the 2026 legislative session.

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