U.S. Automakers Challenge Vermont Emissions Law
 Carbon dioxide is a chemical compound composed of one carbon and two oxygen atoms. It is often referred to by its formula CO2. It is present in the Earth's atmosphere at a low concentration of approximately 0.04% and is an important greenhouse gas. In its solid state, it is called dry ice. It is a major component of the carbon cycle.(Thanks Wikipedia) |
Washington DC April 10, 2007; The AIADA newsletter reported that the U.S. auto industry challenges Vermont in court on Tuesday, trying to block efforts by 10 states adopting stricter limits on vehicle emissions of carbon dioxide.
The trial comes a week after the Supreme Court ruled that greenhouse gases meet the definition of pollutants and told the EPA to rethink its refusal to regulate carbon dioxide emissions.
The Washington Post reports that the 10 states want a 30 percent cut in the amount of carbon dioxide emitted by cars, starting with 2009 models.
Automakers have also sued California and Rhode Island, but the Vermont case starting on Tuesday at the U.S. District Court in Burlington is the first to go to trial. They contend that states are overreaching their authority in trying to regulate vehicle emissions, a power reserved for the federal government.