California’s authority to set environmental rules that are tougher than national standards had never been challenged by Congress. Until now.

Senate Republicans have voted to establish a new precedent that will allow them to roll back clean air standards in California, including a rule phasing out the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035

The Senate took 10 votes Wednesday to approve procedural changes that allow it to take up three joint resolutions that would vacate EPA waivers allowing California to set its own vehicle emissions standards.

GOP leaders insist they aren't trying to end the 60-vote rule. Democrats warn that by ignoring the parliamentarian in this case, they are effectively "going nuclear" on the filibuster.

Senate Republicans oppose California's car emissions rules, questioning the EPA's authority and potential nationwide effects.

A California state senator cited on suspicion of DUI following a car crash in Sacramento has forcefully denied the allegation — saying she has been “falsely accused.”

Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) is placing a hold on the Trump administration’s picks for key roles at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over Republican efforts to ax a California state rule