EPA Rescinds Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding in Largest Deregulatory Action

On February 12, 2026, the EPA rescinded the 2009 Endangerment Finding that greenhouse gases endanger public health and welfare, eliminating the legal foundation for all federal GHG regulation of motor vehicles under the Clean Air Act. The final rule, published February 18, 2026, repeals all federal GHG emission standards for motor vehicles (model years 2012-2027+), associated compliance programs, credit provisions, and reporting obligations. The White House called it the 'single largest deregulatory action in American history,' claiming $1.3 trillion in regulatory cost savings.

• 2009 Endangerment Finding for greenhouse gases rescinded
• All federal vehicle GHG emission standards repealed
• Associated compliance programs and credit provisions eliminated
• Reporting obligations for vehicle GHG emissions removed
• Legal foundation for Clean Air Act GHG regulation removed