Senator Moves to Block EPA Emissions Reduction Plans

U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) said she will file a disapproval resolution to block the EPA from regulating greenhouse gas emissions. The agency indicated early last week when it announced its greenhouse gas emissions endangerment findings that if Congress fails to pass climate change legislation, it has the authority under the Clean Air Act to move ahead on its own.

In its announcement, EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson said greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) are a serious threat to public health and welfare and outlined the agency's plans to tighten emissions standards for vehicles and large-scale pollution sources. The endangerment findings are considered the last step in the process EPA was mandated to follow before it can establish regulations.

"The endangerment finding must be stopped so that Congress can pass responsible legislation that is sound on its own merits, and not merely a defense against the threat of damaging regulations," Murkowski was quoted as saying in a Sustainable Business news article.

When introduced, Murkowski's disapproval resolution will be referred to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. If the resolution is entered in the Senate calendar, it will receive expedited consideration.

   Sustainable Business article

   EPA Message on Greenhouse Gases Comes Across Loud and Clear 

   Policy and Regulation channel on SGN

   EPA profile on SGN