Trump Administration Plans Minnesota Energy Reforms, Mineral Rights Deal with Ukraine

During a cabinet meeting at the White House, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced plans to rewrite the Biden-era fuel economy standards for SUVs and trucks, aiming to lower domestic vehicle costs by reducing the previously established efficiency requirements. The current standards, finalized under the Biden administration, mandated all light-duty vehicles to average 50.4 miles per gallon by 2031, a policy intended to accelerate electric vehicle adoption and reduce emissions. Duffy argued that adjusting these standards would make them more reasonable and affordable. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives was set to vote on repealing two California vehicle emissions rules, signaling broader federal efforts to shift away from stricter environmental regulations.