Passing on the Gas

The Story

California’s new rules have car owners shifting gears.

I’m listening.

Yesterday, the California Air Resources Board voted to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. About 16% of new cars sold in CA this year were zero-emission. Now, by bringing the number to 100% in a little over 10 years, the vote could cut emissions in the state by as much as half. Experts are calling it “huge.” That’s because California is the largest auto market in the US...but that’s not all.

Go on.

California has the power to set its own emissions standards. And the state reportedly has so much bargaining power with auto companies that companies can't ignore the rules. But there’s more: over a dozen states typically follow CA’s rules on emissions — representing more than one-third of the US auto market. Once the EPA signs off on the latest rule (which it’s expected to do), those states are expected to sign off on similar rules. The potential impact on climate change? Huge, considering transportation is the no. 1 contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. And the list of states following CA’s lead includes two of the most populous, like New York and Pennsylvania.

What happens now?

The state shifts into high gear to roll out more EV charging stations. And will work to meet milestones like over two-thirds of sales being zero-emission by 2030. Ford apparently called the move a “landmark standard” that will define clean transportation. Other carmakers said they’re ready to roll out dozens of EV models over the next few years to support the change. Meanwhile, critics (like unions) worry that more EVs on the road could lead to job cuts. That’s because they require fewer parts, which could equal fewer jobs. Oh and if you have a gas-powered car or are one of the many Americans struggling to afford cars (let alone EVs), keep in mind: Californians will still be able to use their existing gas-powered cars — and buy used ones.

What’s changing the state of play…

The US Open. Starting next week, you’ll be able to see coaches instruct players from the stands at the Grand Slam tournament. The new off-court coaching trial — which will run through November — is a 180 from 2018. During the US Open women’s finals that year, Serena Williams was accused of getting off-court coaching during the match. And was later fined $17,000. (Side note: she also smashed her racket and had some words with the umpire). Williams — who is retiring after the upcoming tournament — rejected the coaching claims, saying she’s “never cheated” in her life. Many also argued the outcome would’ve been different if it were a men’s match. Now, professional players are adopting a move that once led to a penalty for one of the world’s most famous athletes. 

...Oh and speaking of stories making a racket: Novak Djokovic. Yesterday, the 21-time Grand Slam champ said he’s been forced to withdraw from the US Open because of the US’s vaccine travel rules.

Why you may want to hold off on the macaroni with the chicken strips…

This. Earlier this week, the federal gov issued a public health alert for Perdue’s gluten free frozen chicken tenders. Purdue — one of the largest poultry companies in the US — has stopped producing the product. The Dept of Agriculture says packs with a 07/12/23 “Best if Used By” date could be contaminated with small pieces of clear plastic and blue dye. The dye doesn't pose a significant health risk, but according to some studies it can be linked to ADHD and cancer. The USDA is urging people to check their freezers and toss or return them.

What’s already in the holiday spirit...

The IRS. Earlier this week, it said it would forgive $1.2 billion in late fees to those who were late on filing their taxes during the pandemic. If you’re one of the 1.6 million taxpayers who needed some extra time, you could get a refund or credit by the end of next month. Not so taxing. 

While today’s Women’s Equality Day…

Friendly reminder: suffragettes walked so women could run.

While the MTV Video Music Awards are back...

So is Britney.

Women retire with significantly less money than men because of the investing gender gap. Let’s change that. Enter: SkimmU Money, presented by Fidelity. We’re back to deep dive on one of the most popular courses from our first semester: investing.

We’ll start our fall semester on September 19 with four courses that’ll teach you the ins and outs of investing — from your mindset and asset allocation to long-term planning and crypto. Hear from financial experts, ask live Qs, and leave feeling ready to build that wealth. Register now.

Today is National Dog Day, and we’ve got recs for how to celebrate your four-legged best friend. Here are our picks for treats you’ll both enjoy. Woof.

• A pink elephant toy from Chewy (and a $30 gift card when you spend $100)

• This build-your-own pack of PetPlate treats your pup will love (use code SKIMM60 for 60% off sitewide)

• A free mug with any framed pet portrait at West & Willow through August 28

Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…

1. Clean skincare that’s better for you and Mother Earth. And when we say clean, we mean it. Biossance’s breakthrough products are clinically tested, cruelty-free, and sustainably made. PS: Skimm’rs get 25% off during their annual friends and family event happening…now.*

2. The best back-to-school sales to shop this week. Even if you're not headed back for a new school year, we've rounded up deals to get you in the spirit. Shop our picks to save on everything from iPad cases to bedding to accessories. Get to it.

3. Pens and pencils for anyone who loved back-to-school shopping. From gel pens (IYKYK) to sleek ballpoints, these writing utensils will give you that new-school-year feeling. Psst...check out even more of our recs for supplies here.

4. Products that'll help give your bathroom a refresh. We've found items to revive your self-care space at every budget — from cheeky bath mats to DIY wallpaper. Plus, if your bathroom isn't exactly spacious, these picks will organize what you're workin' with.

We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.

Run Renatta, run…Renatta G (IL). She’s training for the Chicago Marathon and raising money for the city’s Boys & Girls Clubs. Let’s hear it for the girl. 

(Some) Birthdays…Skimm co-founder Danielle Weisberg (NY), theSkimm's Beck Diaz (FL), Shari Ager Michaels (IL), Kira Labovitz (GA), Kendall Carpenter (MA), Perry Golkin (NY), Gabriella Laskaris (NY), Justine Davie (NY), Jamie Yezzi (GA), Kelly Kerschner (NC), Genera Nelson (MD), Sarah Shockley (NC), Adrienne Thoman (PA), Amy Casai (MI), Jennifer Zychowski (CA)

PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.

Quiet quitting is the newest workplace trend. Think of it as the opposite of ‘doing the most.’ This week on “Skimm This,” we look into what quiet quitting is, why we’re seeing employees set more boundaries, and how work will change as a result of this new phenomenon. Listen now — it’s the least you can do.

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