Prairie State Wire

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) in Illinois, a leading representative of small business interests, has expressed opposition to the adoption of California's vehicle emissions standards. The Illinois Pollution Control Board is preparing to host hearings on whether the state should implement certain rules from California regarding vehicle emissions.

NFIB Illinois State Director, Noah Finley, declared, "Illinois’ small business community overwhelming opposes the adoption of California’s vehicle emissions standards here in Illinois." Finley voiced concerns that these proposals could disadvantage small businesses in Illinois compared to those in neighboring states. He noted that many NFIB members are contemplating scaling back, relocating, or closing and selling their businesses if the mandates take effect. "They’re already wrestling with years of inflation and workforce challenges. The last thing they need is another bureaucratic mandate that further increases the cost of doing business in Illinois."

The board's hearings will focus on California's Advanced Clean Cars II, Advanced Clean Trucks, and the Heavy-Duty Low NOx Omnibus Rules. These rules include phasing out the sale of new gasoline and diesel vehicles, with a target to ban non-electric vehicles by 2035, except for some limited exceptions.

Other measures involve reducing the sale of medium- and heavy-duty trucks powered by traditional fuels, setting targets for electric vehicle sales by 2035: 55% for Class 2b-3 trucks, 75% for Class 4-8 straight trucks, and 40% for truck tractors. Additionally, there would be new testing and emissions standards for heavy-duty trucks.

Interested parties can access NFIB Illinois’ written testimony regarding these standards.