Nick Langworthy, U.S. representative for New York’s 23rd Congressional District, said that the House’s reversal of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) decision to allow California’s gas vehicle ban is a significant victory for consumers and the auto industry.
“This push to force Americans into electric vehicles is nonsensical and dangerous,” said Langworthy, Congressman. “This legislation’s passage in the House is a huge win for our auto-industry consumers, dealerships, and workers. This mandate would have left dealerships with large inventories of unsold EVs, potentially leading to layoffs. Forcing our dealerships to shoulder this burden would have had dire consequences.”
According to The Hill, House Joint Resolution 88 (H.J.Res. 88), passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in May 2025, aims to overturn the EPA waiver granted to California. This waiver permits the state to enforce its own greenhouse gas emission standards, including phasing out new gas-powered vehicle sales by 2035. The waiver is based on California’s authority under the Clean Air Act, which allows it to implement stricter emissions rules than federal standards. Proponents of the resolution argue it prevents economically harmful regulations, while environmental advocates view this rollback as a threat to climate goals and states’ rights.
A 2023 survey by S&P Global Mobility revealed that 56% of U.S. car dealers reported having more electric vehicles (EVs) in stock than they could sell. Dealers cited high prices, insufficient consumer demand, and lack of charging infrastructure—especially outside major metropolitan areas—as key challenges. Additionally, nearly 70% of rural dealerships expressed concern over unsold inventory leading to potential staffing reductions if mandates accelerated without adequate support.
The Economic Policy Institute (EPI) reports that the motor vehicles and parts dealers sector employs approximately 2.1 million people as of early 2024. A 2022 analysis by EPI estimated that a rapid shift to EVs could put between 100,000 and 150,000 dealership jobs at risk without corresponding federal support and infrastructure rollout. This includes roles in service, sales, and mechanical work since EVs generally require less maintenance than internal combustion vehicles.
Langworthy represents New York’s 23rd Congressional District, which includes Chautauqua, Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Tioga Counties, along with parts of Erie, Schuyler, and Steuben Counties. He serves on several committees including House Rules, Energy and Commerce, and Oversight Committees. He is also Chairman of the Aviation Safety Caucus and co-chair of the Maple Caucus while actively participating in the Northern Border Security Caucus and Rural Health Caucus. Previously he served as Chairman of the New York Republican State Committee and worked in Congressman Tom Reynolds’ district office focusing on constituent service and securing resources for his district.
