Closing Startup Shutdown and Malfunction Loopholes
Also expected in March is a proposal for closing loopholes allowing pollution violations during power plant startup, shutdown, and malfunction (SSM). EPA must propose and finalize a strong rule as soon as possible, including further action to ensure state implementation plans address excess emissions associated with SSM.
Toxic Water Pollution Rule
On March 8, EPA proposed a rule on Effluent Limitation Guidelines (ELG). ELG refers to the regulation of pollution discharges from power plants into surface waters and wastewater treatment plants. The recent proposal will reverse exemptions and loopholes introduced by the Trump EPA in 2020, and protect the public from water pollutants that come from coal plants, including toxic heavy metals. The comment period to encourage EPA to keep this rule strong will be open for 60 days.
Coal Ash Rule
On May 5th, we expect a proposal for legacy ponds under the coal ash rule. EPA, however, has not yet indicated that it will close other important coal ash loopholes. EPA needs to expand the scope of the legacy storage ponds rule or issue a new rule closing all exemptions for legacy storage facilities, including for legacy landfills, and crack down on enforcement. Following the proposal, there will be a comment period to encourage EPA to keep this rule strong.
That’s what’s coming down the pike, but you can urge EPA to go further, faster right now.
In January, EPA released a proposed rule to regulate deadly soot pollution. But instead of proposing a strong standard to ensure clean air for communities and advance environmental justice, the rule falls short. Enter your information below and sign an official public comment by the March 28th deadline and demand EPA finalize a stronger soot standard.