Last Updated on April 1st, 2025.
The heavy equipment industry continues to adapt to the evolving landscape of emissions regulations. As of March 2025, significant developments at both federal and state levels are shaping the future of fleet operations. With California’s regulatory power facing legal challenges and federal rules in flux, there’s a mix of uncertainty and opportunity for operators focused on compliance and electrification. Below are the latest EV emissions by state and what fleet managers need to know.
At the federal level, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is in the final stages of introducing its Phase 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) standards for heavy-duty vehicles. These standards, expected to apply to model-year 2027 trucks, aim to tighten emissions limits and accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), especially in the freight sector (FleetOwner). However, these efforts face resistance. A growing number of lawsuits—filed by coalitions of states and industry groups—are challenging the EPA’s ability to harmonize national regulations with California’s more ambitious emissions targets. These legal hurdles could delay implementation or result in softened rules, adding a layer of complexity for fleet planning.
Traditionally at the forefront of emissions policy, California has experienced a notable shift following legal setbacks. In January, Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposed ban on gas-powered vehicles was overturned in court, signaling a major blow to the state’s long-term electrification strategy (California Globe). In response, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has officially paused the enforcement of new deadlines tied to the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule. This rule mandated increasing ZEV sales among truck manufacturers. Similarly, the Omnibus rule, which targets significant nitrogen oxide (NOx) reductions from diesel engines, is under review, with CARB expected to introduce a more gradual phase-in by mid-2025. Nevertheless, California has reaffirmed its climate commitment through a newly announced $1 billion Clean Truck Incentive Program, designed to support ZEV adoption and expand related infrastructure.
Other states aligned with California’s emissions standards are also adjusting course. Oregon’s Department of Environmental Quality has officially delayed ACT rule implementation by 12 months, moving full enforcement to 2026 (SCDigest). The state has also rolled out grant programs to help fleets invest in electric and hydrogen-powered trucks, aiming to ease the financial burden of compliance. In Massachusetts, the ACT rule remains in place, but the state has shifted focus toward incentive-based strategies, offering tax credits for fleets purchasing electric medium- and heavy-duty trucks.
While maintaining its commitment to ACT, Washington is scaling back enforcement timelines for small and mid-sized fleets. The state has also launched a Clean Truck Infrastructure Fund to build out EV charging along key freight corridors. New York’s 2025 ZEV targets remain in effect, but lawmakers are considering a pause on enforcement in rural areas where charging access is limited. Meanwhile, the state continues exploring stricter mandates for urban fleet electrification by 2026.
New Jersey, which has taken a more moderate stance than its coastal neighbors, is now expanding its EV voucher program to include Class 6–8 trucks. Rather than leaning into mandates, the state continues to rely on incentives to promote the shift toward low-emission freight.
These developments mark a crucial moment in the national emissions strategy. While California’s rollback has sent ripples through state-level policymaking, the federal government’s upcoming standards and the continued availability of incentives suggest that momentum for fleet electrification remains strong. For fleet operators, staying informed about legal decisions and infrastructure developments is essential as the regulatory environment continues evolving.
Last Updated on February 20th, 2025.
The heavy equipment industry continues to navigate shifting EV emissions by state, with significant developments at both federal and state levels. Recent legal challenges have led to the rollback of some of California’s most aggressive emissions mandates, creating uncertainty for fleet operators nationwide. Below, we provide an updated overview of federal policies and state-specific changes.
Federal Emissions Regulations Updates
The administration remains committed to strengthening emissions regulations, but legal and political challenges have slowed implementation. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reviewing new greenhouse gas (GHG) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) standards for heavy-duty trucks, which may align with California’s previous mandates.
However, with California’s regulatory power in question, industry groups are pushing back against federally imposed rules, arguing that aggressive emissions targets could increase costs and disrupt supply chains. Fleet operators should prepare for delays or modifications to upcoming federal emissions mandates.
State-by-State Emissions Regulations Updates
Several states have followed California’s lead in adopting stricter emission standards by state, but recent court rulings could change their implementation timelines. Here’s the latest update:
California: ACT and Omnibus Rule Impacted by Policy Rollbacks
California has long been a leader in emissions reductions, but a recent legal challenge has significantly altered the state’s trajectory.
- Governor Gavin Newsom’s ban on gas-powered vehicles has been overturned, halting the transition toward a full zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) market.
- The Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule, which required manufacturers to increase ZEV truck sales, is now under review, with expected rollbacks or delays.
- The Omnibus rule, designed to reduce NOx emissions from heavy-duty trucks, also faces legal scrutiny. While CARB initially pushed for full enforcement by 2025, compliance deadlines may now be extended.
With these setbacks, California’s ability to set its emissions standards is questioned. This could have nationwide implications, as several states have adopted California’s regulations as a model.
Oregon
Oregon had previously committed to California’s ACT rule but may reassess its stance in light of the recent rollback. The state’s Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will issue a revised implementation timeline in the coming months.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts remains committed to stricter emissions regulations but may adjust deadlines following California’s legal challenges. In 2025, the state is expected to focus more on incentives rather than strict mandates.
Washington
Washington has proactively adopted California-aligned EV emissions by state, but state lawmakers are now debating whether to proceed with previously planned restrictions. The Clean Vehicles Program may shift towards voluntary compliance and incentive-based solutions.
New York
New York has consistently supported aggressive EV emissions by the state, but recent court rulings could force it to reconsider its approach. Fleet operators should watch for possible changes in electric truck sales requirements.
New Jersey
New Jersey had taken a more moderate approach to EV emissions by state, focusing on incentives rather than strict mandates. The latest developments in California may reinforce this strategy, keeping New Jersey’s policies flexible for fleet operators.
Looking Ahead
The recent rollback of California’s most stringent EV emissions by state marks a significant shift in national policy. Fleet operators should stay informed as federal and state governments reassess their strategies in response to these legal challenges.
With uncertainty surrounding California’s leadership on emissions policy, 2025 may bring more flexibility in compliance requirements. However, businesses should remain prepared for ongoing regulatory shifts.
Learn more about our electric offerings here. Stay tuned for our next update as we track the latest developments in truck emissions regulations.
*Custom Truck One Source cannot and does not provide legal advice. The information provided represents Custom Truck’s best information regarding the changing regulatory landscape as of February 2025. All facts and laws are subject to change. Contact your legal counsel for the current state of the law and for all legal advice.
References:
California Globe
Fleet Owner
Supply Chain Digest
