Yesterday, the National Assembly's special committee responsible for examining the "simplification" bill voted in favor of the elimination of low emission zones. These zones, established to improve air quality by restricting the circulation of the most polluting vehicles, are criticized by some elected officials and many motorists, who believe that they penalize low-income households, who are forced either to invest in less polluting vehicles or to give up their journeys.
A first step
The proposal to abolish the law, initiated by members of the Republicans and the National Rally, was adopted despite opposition from the government. Votes from some Macronist groups, Horizons, and the independents of LIOT joined the initiative, while several left-wing MPs abstained.
ZFEs were established to reduce fine particle emissions, which are responsible for respiratory illnesses and numerous deaths each year. However, their implementation has sparked debate about their social impact, particularly regarding the alternatives offered to people dependent on their vehicles for transportation.
It should be noted, however, that this committee vote is only one step. The bill will still need to be debated in plenary session in the National Assembly, then in the Senate, before its possible final adoption.
