WASHINGTON, D.C. — The 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals dismissed the U.S. government’s new federal fuel economy standards for many sport-utility vehicles, minivans and pickup trucks in a ruling Nov. 15. The Court noted that the standards, which would go into effect next year, did not properly assess the risk to the environment and failed to address heavier SUVs and trucks, along with other deficiencies. This ruling followed a lawsuit filed by 10 states, New York City, the District of Columbia and a variety of environmental groups, that argued federal regulators failed to note the effects of carbon dioxide emissions when calculating fuel economy standards for light trucks. The suit was filed last year and sought to force the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to recalculate its mileage standards, taking into account carbon dioxide emissions. The Court also called on the Bush administration to re-evaluate why it continues to treat light trucks differently than cars. In March 2006, the new mileage standards were announced that required an increase in the average fuel economy for all passenger trucks sold in the United States from 22.2 miles per gallon to 23.5 miles per gallon by 2010. To view the 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruling, visit the Automotive Service Association’s (ASA’s) legislative Web site, www.TakingTheHill.com. The link can be found under the “Press Center” tab by clicking on “References and Bills.”
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