In 2012, the EPA revised its rules on new source performance standards (NSPS) of greenhouse gas emissions, resulting in stricter regulations on future power plants. Unfortunately, these rules do not address existing power plants, which tend to be heavy greenhouse gas producers. ASBC believes that protecting the environment has always been and should remain a bipartisan effort. The nation needs to invest in clean energy technologies that will create jobs, lead to economies of scale, and lead to cleaner air.
Background:
The recent initiatives by the 112th Congress have been aimed at undermining the EPA's authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants. These efforts, no doubt, will continue in the 113th Congress, and are not in the business community's or the nation's best interest. Federal action is needed to address the climate challenge, thus reducing risk and uncertainty for business. A patchwork of state legislation and judicial rulings is not the answer.
Take Action Today
With the failure of the Senate to act on a comprehensive climate and energy bill over the past few years, the role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in regulating greenhouse gas emissions has become ever more important. However, not everyone agrees that the EPA has the authority to do so. The US Chamber of Commerce, for example, has challenged the EPA in federal court. The DC Circuit Court of Appeals sided with the EPA twice in 2012, based on the Supreme Court decision in 2007 (Massachusetts et al vs. Environmental Protection Agency et al), which affirmed that the EPA has the authority under the Clean Air Act to regulate carbon as a pollutant. We must ensure that Congress does not mitigate the power of the EPA in limiting harmful emissions.
We now call on you to personally sign this letter and join with business leaders throughout the country who support smart and sustainable growth.
Latest Developments
ASBC sent a letter to President Obama applauding him for addressing climate change during his inaugural address and urging him to take firm actions to mitigate the negative economic, environmental and social effects of climate change and build a robust, sustainable clean energy economy.
