Rep. James Gallagher

 

WASHINGTON, DC (MPG) - Rep. James Gallagher has introduced a congressional resolution seeking to overturn federal approval of California emissions requirements for commercial vessels, arguing the regulations will increase costs for businesses, fishing guides and consumers.

Gallagher, R-Chico, introduced a Congressional Review Act resolution targeting the Environmental Protection Agency's January 2025 authorization of California's Commercial Harbor Craft Amendments. The state regulations establish new engine standards and zero-emission requirements for several types of vessels operating in California waters.

"This is about affordability," Gallagher said. "This rule drives up costs for maritime businesses, makes it harder to move goods through our ports, and ultimately leaves American families paying the price. Congress has a responsibility to restore oversight and stop Sacramento bureaucrats from dictating national policy."

The regulations cover several types of commercial vessels, including pilot boats, research vessels, workboats, commercial fishing vessels, commercial passenger fishing vessels and certain tank barges.

Gallagher's office said the requirements could affect businesses beyond California's major ports, including fishing guides and charter operators who depend on commercial vessels for their livelihoods.

James Stone, president of the Nor-Cal Guides & Sportsmen's Association, said the organization supports Gallagher's resolution because of the potential costs to charter captains and fishing guides.

"Many of these are small, family-owned businesses that already operate under extensive federal and state regulations," Stone said. "Requiring costly engine replacements and vessel modifications threatens their ability to stay in business, reducing recreational access, hurting coastal/rural economies, and jeopardizing thousands of jobs."

Stone also pointed to the challenges facing California's salmon industry following three years of closures.

"The salmon industry is barely surviving this year after reopening fisheries after 3 full years of salmon closures," Stone said. "We appreciate Congressman Gallagher's leadership in protecting working waterfront businesses and ensuring that California's charter fleet can continue serving anglers and communities across our state."

The American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers also backed Gallagher's effort. Chet Thompson, the organization's president and CEO, said the regulations could affect ferries, tugboats and tank barges.

"Since these vessels keep ports operating, goods moving and energy supplies flowing far beyond California, the impact of this rule will be felt nationwide," Thompson said. "American families and businesses should not have to pay the price for yet another unachievable California mandate."

The EPA approved California's Commercial Harbor Craft Amendments in January 2025. According to Gallagher's office, the authorization was not transmitted to Congress for review, allowing lawmakers to seek its reversal under the Congressional Review Act.

If approved, Gallagher's resolution would overturn the EPA authorization allowing California to enforce the amendments.