In what he called an important step toward energy independence, President Obama on Monday signed two presidential directives aimed at making automobiles cleaner and more efficient. Obama directed the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to revisit its denial of a waiver request by California, which would allow the state–and at least 13 others that have signed on to follow its lead–to set vehicle emissions standards higher than the national standard.

The Bush administration's EPA, headed by administrator Stephen Johnson, had previously denied the request–the first such denial of a California waiver. (For 2008 coverage, see “California Clash“).

Also on Monday, Obama announced he would direct the Department of Transportation to begin drafting auto fuel economy standards for a March release, ensuring that they will be in place for 2011. The standards require that, starting in 2011, new cars sold in the U.S. have an average fuel efficiency of 35 miles per gallon, up from the current 27.5 mpg.

Both actions will have broad effects on automakers trying to comply with the new regulations while already struggling with their own finances. Following the White House announcement, some expressed concern over the potential impact. “I am fearful that today's action will begin the process of setting the American auto industry back even further,” Sen. George Voinovich (R-Ohio) said in a statement.

Other politicians and environmental groups praised Obama's actions, which are seen as an assurance that the new administration's attitude toward environmental policy will not reflect the Bush administration, which many saw as marked by inaction.

“In more ways than the environment, this is a breath of fresh air,” Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) said in a statement. “This also makes clear that we once again have a White House and an EPA that value science and the way science and engineering can help solve some of the nation's most difficult challenges.”

Obama said that the steps toward fuel independence are important for the country's security and economy, emphasizing a view to the future. “Our goal is not to further burden an already struggling industry, it is to help America's automakers prepare for the future,” he said. “We must ensure that the fuel efficient cars of tomorrow are built right here.”