25 States Challenge New EPA Soot Rule in Court

Republican-led states argue the rule imposes undue economic burdens and advances a 'radical green agenda'.

25 Republican-led states, spearheaded by Kentucky and West Virginia, have filed lawsuits against the Biden administration's new EPA rule on soot pollution, claiming it advances a 'radical green agenda'.
The EPA's new rule lowers the annual standard for fine particulate matter (soot) to 9 micrograms per cubic meter, aiming to improve public health and reduce early deaths from heart disease and lung cancer.
Opponents argue the rule will raise costs for manufacturers, utilities, and families, potentially blocking new economic activity by putting many U.S. counties out of compliance.
EPA Administrator Michael Regan defends the rule, estimating $46 billion in net health benefits by 2032, including the prevention of up to 800,000 asthma attacks and 4,500 premature deaths.
The lawsuits come as the Supreme Court hears arguments on another EPA regulation, the 'good neighbor rule', highlighting ongoing legal battles over environmental policies.