by Staff Report
HARTFORD, CT — The proposed rollback of federal fuel economy standards will hurt consumers by resulting in higher fuel costs, according to Gov. Ned Lamont and Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes.
The two released a joint statement on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s plan to roll back federal fuel economy standards, which have been supported by federal administrations from both parties since 1975.
“At a time when American consumers are already struggling with high costs, this action by the federal administration will hit consumers in the wallet, resulting in cars that are less fuel efficient and more trips to the gas station,” Lamont said. “Fuel economy standards have been supported on a bipartisan basis for decades because they’re a win-win for the consumer and for our air quality.”
Dykes agreed, saying the standards have saved the average household $630 to $840 each year over the past 15 years.
“In addition to increasing expenses on gas, the roll back will have other harmful impacts, including increased air pollution,” she said. “Connecticut already faces high levels of air pollution from cars and trucks, which contribute to negative health outcomes for people with respiratory illnesses, particularly those in sensitive groups, such as children and older adults.”
Officials said there are more than 2.7 million vehicles registered in Connecticut. Cars and trucks account for almost 70% of smog-forming emissions in Connecticut and almost 35% of its climate pollution, according to state data. Air quality in Connecticut exceeded the federal health-based standards for ozone (smog) on 23 days in 2024 and 22 days in 2025.
Individuals in sensitive groups, including children, older adults, and those with pre-existing health conditions who are exposed to unhealthy levels of air pollution are at an increased risk of developing respiratory symptoms and may experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, officials said. Children and people with asthma or other lung disease are most at risk of experiencing these symptoms. People experiencing severe symptoms are more likely to miss work or school and seek medical treatment.
In 2024, the NHTSA stated that its improved fuel economy standards would reduce fuel costs by $23 billion with net benefits at about $35 billion for drivers.