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EPA Plans Sweeping Rollbacks of Key Climate and Pollution Protections

The Trump administration targets decades of environmental regulations, including the 2009 endangerment finding, in a push for deregulation.

Housing is seen in the Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood in 2016. The area, in the vicinity of the old, polluted former shipyard, is one that could be impacted by the Trump administration's renunciation of environmental justice initiatives.
FILE - Traffic flows on Interstate 435 on Sept. 25, 2024, in Leawood, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)
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Overview

  • The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced 31 regulatory changes, including reevaluating the 2009 endangerment finding that underpins U.S. climate policies.
  • Proposed rollbacks include emissions standards for coal and gas plants, vehicle regulations, and mercury and soot pollution limits.
  • The agency plans to restructure programs addressing greenhouse gas reporting, industrial accident safeguards, and water pollution from power plants.
  • Environmental groups and legal experts warn that these actions could increase pollution, harm public health, and face significant court challenges.
  • The administration claims the rollbacks will reduce costs for businesses and consumers, though critics argue they prioritize corporate interests over environmental and public safety.