Washington, August 14 (RHC)-- In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency has announced that it will freeze Obama-era fuel economy standards at 2020 levels -- in the latest blow by the Donald Trump administration against efforts to curb catastrophic climate change. 

Under previous rules, the U.S. was on track to double fuel mileage standards to an average of nearly 55 miles per gallon by 2025.  Under the new rules, automakers will be allowed to continue selling cars and light trucks in the U.S. that average about 30 miles per gallon. 

The Trump administration also plans to revoke California's authority to set its own tougher automobile emissions standards.  California Governor Jerry Brown said his state would lead 17 other states in a legal challenge against the move, tweeting: "California will fight this stupidity in every conceivable way possible."