EPA sets strict new emissions standards on heavy-duty vehicles [Video]

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – The Environmental Protection Agency is setting strict new emission standards for heavy-duty vehicles that it says will help address the worsening climate crisis. But truckers warn the rules will devastate their industry and cost consumers. 

Environmental advocates are excited about the crackdown on emissions. 

Amanda Leland, the Executive Director of the Environmental Defense Fund, expects the new standards to have a huge impact. 

“This is a big deal, it’s a really big deal,” Leland said. “These new standards will prevent a gigiton, one billion tons of climate pollution from getting into our air and our atmosphere.” 

The companies that own the big trucks aren’t happy about the changes. CEO of the American Trucking Associations Chris Spear says the EPA’s calls the new rules unrealistic.

“The timelines and targets in this rule are simply unachievable,” Spear said. “It’s going to be a travesty if it goes forward.” 

The EPA insists the new rules give the industry time …