In the case of clean cars, the fourth time ? and a new administration ? was the charm. The Senate voted 38-9 Monday to approve legislation adopting the stricter California standards for vehicle emissions.
Five Senate Republicans broke with their party to vote for the measure. Sen. Allan Kittleman, R-Howard, argued repeatedly during three days of debate on the Senate floor that Maryland would be ceding some of its “sovereignty” by adopting the California regulations that are established by an appointed panel in that state. Senate Minority Leader David Brinkley, R-Frederick, argued Monday that Maryland car dealers located along the state?s border with Pennsylvania could be competitively disadvantaged by the tougher laws because Pennsylvania had not adopted parts of the California rules requiring a percentage of dealers? stock to meet gas mileage standards.
