A federal appeals court rejected the city's attempt to force cab drivers to switch to hybrid vehicles yesterday, saying regulating fuel efficiency is the federal government's job. The decision, which upheld a 2009 ruling that the city's efforts were an attempt to mandate fuel economy, is the latest in a line of roadblocks. Regarding yesterday's decision, city lawyer Michael Cardozo said, "We do not believe that Congress intended for the Clean Air Act or the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to prohibit local governments from implementing incentive programs that encourage the purchase of environmentally friendly taxis." If the city wants to appeal again, they'll have to take it to the US Supreme Court.