The Senate has voted to block California’s first-in-the nation rule banning the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. The resolution is one of three expected to pass Congress and be signed by President Trump aimed at blocking California’s emissions rules that critics say have undue influence over the country.. California makes up roughly 11% of the U.S. car market, giving it significant power to shape purchasing trends..and therefore the way vehicles are made and sold around the country. California Gov. Gavin Newsom and state air regulators say that what Congress is doing is illegal and they will likely sue to keep the rules in place.