Repealing the Endangerment Finding, Rolling Back Vehicle Emissions Standards Would be Dangerous Setback for Health

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a proposal to overrule the Endangerment Finding, EPA’s longstanding, science-based finding that greenhouse gases endanger human health and welfare, and roll back standards to limit greenhouse gas emissions from new cars and trucks. In response, the American Lung Association’s President and CEO Harold Wimmer issued the following statement:

“Repealing the Endangerment Finding and the standards to limit greenhouse gasses from vehicles would impact the health of everyone in the U.S. Supported by science and the law, the Endangerment Finding has been a cornerstone of public health protection for more than 15 years. It is the foundation of EPA’s ability and responsibility to regulate climate pollutants like carbon dioxide and methane. Overturning it would go against decades of scientific consensus and put polluters ahead of the health of children, seniors and communities. 

“The Endangerment Finding affirms that emissions of greenhouse gases contribute to climate change, which worsens air pollution and harms health. The impacts of climate change – ranging from more lung-searing ozone, more intense and frequent wildfires, deadly floods and increasing risks from diseases – have direct and profound impacts on respiratory health, including heightened risks of asthma attacks, COPD exacerbations and premature death. 

“In addition, if EPA dismantles essential standards to clean up vehicle pollution, the agency is giving its blessing to more pollution that will lead to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases and premature deaths that could have been prevented. This decision would not only stall American technological progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also disproportionately impact those who are most vulnerable to air pollution, including children, older adults and pregnant women. We urge EPA not to move forward with this harmful action and to instead prioritize the health and well-being of all communities.

“These proposals are not just an administrative rollback; they endanger the health of people nationwide. EPA has the responsibility to protect all Americans – now and in the future – from the escalating threats of climate change. The Lung Association will use every tool at our disposal to defend the right to clean air and a safe climate.”