The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is impacting the cost of goods across the United States through regulatory waivers. These changes are raising prices for consumers, even though many are unaware of the source.
● Rising Costs: Grocery bills and shipping costs have increased, a trend partly driven by CARB's regulations on pollution.
● De Facto National Policy: CARB's regulatory approach effectively sets national energy policy without direct approval from Congress or voters outside California.
● At-Berth Regulation: A specific regulation requires cargo ships at California ports to shut down diesel engines, which leads to penalties for non-compliance. Owners must register expensive retrofits to comply, contributing to higher freight rates.
● Financial Impact: CARB estimates this regulation will cost $2.23 billion by 2032, with costs passing from shipping companies to consumers through higher prices on goods.
● Lack of Representation: Only California voters had a say on these regulations. Citizens from other states like Texas and Ohio were not consulted, and their representatives did not vote on these measures.
● Congressional Action: Congress can review and potentially repeal waivers using the Congressional Review Act, and there is bipartisan precedent for this action.
Consumers are paying more due to California's regulatory decisions, and Congress has the power to review these waivers. With rising prices affecting many, it is essential for lawmakers to address the implications of CARB’s policies nationwide.
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