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Federal Judge Rules States Can Regulate Tailpipe Emissions

California and several other states scored a victory today in their battle to get automakers to comply with rules aimed at reducing global warming. The states want to use tougher auto emission standar

Federal Judge Rules States Can Regulate Tailpipe Emissions

California and several other states scored a victory today in their battle to get automakers to comply with rules aimed at reducing global warming. The states want to use tougher auto emission standards than the federal government requires. KPBS reporter Ed Joyce has more.

A federal judge in a Vermont case has ruled that states can regulate tailpipe emissions. He rejected automakers claims that federal law pre-empts state law and that technology to meet the state requirements can't be developed. The judge says automakers should be able to meet emissions regulations in California and 11 other states. The state limits require a 30 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from cars and trucks by 2016. An automakers group says it may appeal the decision.

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They filed suit in California, Vermont and Rhode Island. A hearing is set for October in California's case. A lawyer who represented environmental groups says the Vermont ruling makes it likely the California case will be dismissed.

Ed Joyce, KPBS News.