The administration of President Donald Trump has filed a lawsuit against California air regulators, escalating a long-running dispute over the state’s strict vehicle emission standards. The legal challenge targets rules designed to reduce pollution from cars, following earlier federal action blocking California’s planned ban on the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035.

California leaders criticized the lawsuit, arguing it comes as gasoline prices rise nationwide amid conflict involving Iran. State officials say their policies aim to expand consumer choice and lower long-term costs by encouraging cleaner vehicle options. Gasoline prices in California remain significantly higher than the national average, with recent increases reported both statewide and across the country.

The federal government contends that California lacks the authority to enforce its own emission standards, calling the requirements costly and unlawful. For decades, California has been permitted to seek federal approval to adopt stricter pollution rules than national standards, and other states have been allowed to follow its lead. That authority was revoked during President Trump’s first term, later restored under President Joe Biden, and now faces renewed legal challenges.