Rep. Junie Joseph Condemns President Trump’s Rollback of Fuel Efficiency Standards, Warns of Harm to Colorado’s Climate Progress

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 3, 2025

BOULDER, Colo. - Colorado State Representative Junie Joseph issued a strong statement today condemning President Donald Trump’s move to roll back federal fuel-efficiency standards — a decision she says puts public health, climate stability, and the nation’s clean-energy progress at serious risk.

“Rolling back fuel-efficiency standards is a reckless step backwards,” said Rep. Joseph. “Colorado has been leading the nation in clean-energy innovation, but decisions like this one from Washington jeopardize the health of our communities and the stability of our climate. We cannot allow the federal government to drag us back into a fossil-fuel past while Coloradans are working toward a cleaner future.”

The Trump administration’s proposal sharply weakens future mileage requirements, enabling automakers to continue prioritizing fossil-fuel vehicles and increasing long-term emissions. Rep. Joseph noted that this move stands in stark contrast to Colorado’s progress and values.

She pointed to Colorado’s landmark HB23-1272, a key law she supported that accelerates decarbonization through expanded tax credits for electric vehicles, e-bikes, heat pumps, geothermal systems, and sustainable aviation fuel, while scaling back tax breaks for oil and gas production. “These policies aren’t just about reducing emissions — they’re about protecting public health, lowering costs for families, and building a resilient economy,” she said. “Colorado is proving that environmental responsibility and economic opportunity go hand in hand.”

Rep. Joseph warned that the federal rollback undermines Colorado’s momentum toward a no-carbon future. “Colorado has committed to a cleaner, healthier future because the science is clear and the stakes are high. The Trump administration’s decision directly threatens our ability to meet climate goals and protect the air our children breathe. It sends a dangerous message that polluters’ interests matter more than public health.”

Despite the federal reversal, Rep. Joseph emphasized that Colorado will continue moving forward. “I urge Coloradans to stay engaged and stay focused. We must push back against harmful federal policies and continue building a future rooted in clean energy, innovation, and environmental justice. Colorado will not be deterred.”