EPA takes first steps to roll back emissions standards
Posted April 6, 2017
As anticipated, EPA announced in the April 4, 2017, Federal Register, that the agency is reviewing and, if appropriate, will initiate proceedings to suspend, revise, or rescind three final rules:
- 10/23/2015 Carbon Pollution Emission Guidelines for Existing Stationary Sources: Electric Utility Generating Units final rule, also known as the Clean Power Plan. This rule cuts carbon pollution from existing power plants.
- 10/23/2015 Standards of Performance for Greenhouse Gas Emissions from New, Modified, and Reconstructed Stationary Sources: Electric Utility Generating Units final rule. The rule cuts carbon emissions from new, modified, and reconstructed power plants.
- 6/3/2016 Oil and Natural Gas Sector: Emission Standards for New, Reconstructed, and Modified Sources final rule. This rule for the oil and natural gas source category sets standards for both greenhouse gases (GHGs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
The move comes in response to Executive Order 13783, Promoting Energy Independence and Economic Growth. The order specifically directs EPA to review and, if appropriate, initiate reconsideration proceedings to suspend, revise, or rescind the rules listed above. If EPA’s review concludes that suspension, revision, or rescission of these may be appropriate, the agency’s review will be followed by a rulemaking process.
J. J. Keller's Environmental Alert: The Compliance Guide for Safety Professionals helps you stay on top of the latest environmental enforcement issues.
J. J. Keller's FREE Workplace SafetyClicks™ email newsletter brings quick-read workplace safety and compliance news right to your email box.