EPA finalizes repeal of 2009 greenhouse gas endangerment finding

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin finalized the rescission of the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding on February 12, 2026, eliminating the scientific and legal foundation for nearly all federal regulation of greenhouse gas emissions. The final rule also repealed federal GHG emission standards for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty motor vehicles covering model years back to 2012. The rule was published in the Federal Register on February 18 and takes effect April 20, 2026. Legal challenges began immediately from environmental groups and state attorneys general.