Oregon is hitting the brakes on enforcing its Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) Rule, giving truck manufacturers a two-year break from penalties if they fail to meet electric vehicle (EV) sales targets. The decision comes as truck makers face steep costs, limited charging infrastructure, and growing uncertainty from federal tariffs and funding cuts.
Why the Rule Was Delayed
The ACT Rule, which took effect in January 2024, requires manufacturers to increase sales of zero-emission trucks like battery-electric and plug-in hybrids. But according to Oregon’s Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), the transition hasn’t gone smoothly.
In a memo released May 15, DEQ Director Leah Feldon said the state won’t fine manufacturers for missing sales goals through 2026. However, companies are still required to report their sales data and outline how they plan to meet clean truck goals in the future.
Feldon pointed to a combination of industry feedback and national policy changes. She noted that the Trump administration’s new tariffs and reduced federal EV incentives have created “significant uncertainty” for manufacturers trying to meet Oregon’s clean vehicle mandates.
Pushback from Lawmakers and Industry
Truck makers aren’t the only ones calling for change. Oregon lawmakers, including Governor Tina Kotek, asked the DEQ to ease enforcement—especially after Daimler Truck North America temporarily paused big truck sales in Oregon due to compliance challenges.
A separate attempt in the legislature to delay the ACT Rule by two years failed, but the DEQ’s voluntary enforcement pause effectively meets that demand.
This isn’t the only emissions policy being delayed. The DEQ also postponed a rule requiring diesel trucks and vans to meet stricter pollution limits.
Industry vs. Environmental Advocates
Supporters of the pause say it’s a practical move. “The lack of charging infrastructure, the limited range and high costs have always made these rules unrealistic,” said Rep. Shelly Boshart Davis (R-Albany), who supported the delay.
But environmental groups say the delay will slow progress on clean air and climate goals. “This is a public health failure,” said Mary Peveto, executive director of Neighbors for Clean Air. “Diesel pollution harms children, seniors, and people living near freight corridors.”
According to DEQ data, vehicles account for 35% of Oregon’s greenhouse gas emissions. Clean truck advocates argue that delaying regulations will result in more pollution and higher healthcare costs.
What’s Next for Oregon
Despite the delay, the ACT Rule is still in place and will be enforced again after the two-year pause. Governor Kotek emphasized the rule’s role in reaching Oregon’s climate targets and improving air quality.
However, the future remains uncertain. Congressional efforts to revoke the authority that lets states like Oregon adopt California-style clean air rules could make long-term enforcement even more difficult. For now, the state aims to balance environmental goals with economic and infrastructure realities.
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