I don't see much sense in this regulations - fuel prices will bring the same result anyhow.
Obviously, you don't see the connection to the federal cash register. The vehicles that can't meet the standards will have a tax added to the price.
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How did we get to the point where salvation from our problems is thought to be - bureaucracy and government regulation?
As you mention - the free market laws of supply and demand will suffice.
Regulations make liberals feel like they are doing something. Laws do the same for them. Then they can have press conferences and claim they have solved something.