NHTSA: Blocking EPA gas rules may backfire

Washington -- Automakers could face sharply higher costs if Congress blocks the Environmental Protection Agency from finalizing tailpipe emissions limits, the Obama administration says.

In a letter to congressional leaders, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's chief counsel, O. Kevin Vincent, said Congress would jeopardize a deal reached by automakers, California and the White House if it blocks the EPA from using its power to limit greenhouse gases.

California and a dozen states could go forward, each with its own rules, if Congress blocks EPA from setting national standards.

From The Detroit News: http://detnews.com/article/20100227/AUTO01/2270316/NHTSA--Blocking-EPA-gas-rules-may-backfire#ixzz0gw60rUpP