Source: Politico
Summary
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed a new rule that would undo a 2009 finding that allowed the federal government to regulate six greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide and methane. The rule, announced on June 19, 2019, would limit the EPA’s authority to regulate these gases under the Clean Air Act. The move is seen as a major rollback of Obama-era climate policies. According to EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler, the rule would “ensure that the agency’s regulation of greenhouse gases is grounded in a correct interpretation of the Clean Air Act.”
Our Reading
The announcement sounds ambitious.
The EPA’s new rule would essentially reboot the agency’s approach to regulating greenhouse gases. The rule would limit the EPA’s authority to regulate these gases under the Clean Air Act. This move is part of the Trump administration’s broader effort to roll back climate regulations. The EPA’s action is seen as a major reversal of Obama-era climate policies. Because, of course, the best way to address climate change is to redefine what constitutes a pollutant.
Author: Evan Null
Regulatory Rollbacks
The Trump administration has been actively working to roll back various environmental regulations, including those related to climate change.
A Shift in EPA Policy
The proposed rule marks a significant shift in the EPA’s approach to regulating greenhouse gases, which are a major contributor to climate change.
Obama-Era Policies Under Attack
The move is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to dismantle Obama-era climate policies, including the Clean Power Plan.
Environmental Implications
The rollback of greenhouse gas regulations could have significant environmental implications, including increased emissions and accelerated climate change.
Reactions and Next Steps
The proposed rule is likely to face opposition from environmental groups and some lawmakers, who argue that it would undermine efforts to address climate change. The rule will undergo a public comment period before being finalized.
