The California Air Resources Board (CARB) pulled back its requests for federal approval to enforce stricter diesel emissions rules, a decision reportedly made in anticipation of the Trump administration’s rollbacks on environmental regulations. This move is seen as a capitulation to political pressures that could undermine California’s longstanding environmental leadership.

The California Air Resources Board's recently enacted fuel standard, aimed at reducing fossil fuel use and promoting cleaner energy, was rejected by the state Office of Administrative Law for failing to meet clarity requirements. CARB has committed to reviewing the decision and resubmitting a revised regulation within 120 days, highlighting a process of accountability and responsiveness amid heated debates over potential impacts on fuel prices and climate policy.

Environmental groups have filed lawsuits alleging that the California Air Resources Board's recent amendments to its low-carbon fuel standard violated the California Environmental Quality Act by failing to assess the environmental impact of incentivizing biofuels, an action argued to potentially increase pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) announced it will exercise enforcement discretion for the first GHG emission reports due in 2026, allowing regulated businesses to report using previously collected data. Simultaneously, CARB is soliciting public comment on the implementation of GHG reporting requirements under the CCDAA and CRFRA, aiming to refine the new regulatory framework amid ongoing legal challenges.

Amid a surge in lobbying by former employees and industry groups, CARB announced on December 5, 2024, that it would not enforce new emissions reporting rules during its first year. This decision has raised concerns about regulatory capture and the undue influence of corporate lobbyists on the agency's policymaking.

Following a November vote to update the low carbon fuel standard, the California Air Resources Board introduced a measure incorporating a contingency clause to re-evaluate its decisions if gas prices spike. GOP lawmakers have criticized the move, demanding additional independent oversight and transparency in decision-making.

CARB has been named as a defendant in a federal lawsuit challenging California’s new climate disclosure laws, SB 253 and SB 261, which require large companies to report on their carbon emissions and climate-related financial risks. The lawsuit argues that these laws compel politically charged speech, while proponents view them as a necessary measure for corporate transparency and environmental accountability.