Top Republicans and the AZ Chamber of Commerce are suing the EPA over new pollution rules
Republican lawmakers, including Senate President Warren Petersen and House Speaker Ben Toma, have raised objections to a federal rule aiming to reduce smokestack and diesel emissions. They’ve joined forces with the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry in filing a lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, arguing that the rule’s stringent requirements will have detrimental effects on Arizona’s economy. Petersen criticized the rule as “tyrannical,” expressing concerns that it would impose unnecessary burdens on businesses and create additional red tape.
The rule targets fine particle pollution, known as PM 2.5, and proposes lowering the national standard from 12 to 9 micrograms per cubic meter of air, potentially impacting counties like Maricopa, Pinal, and Santa Cruz. GOP leaders warn of increased costs for consumers and hindered economic growth if the rule is enforced, advocating for its dismissal by the courts. They emphasize the need to address wildfire pollution instead of imposing strict regulations that could harm Arizona’s economy.
Published Mar 25, 2024 | 5:48 pm ET
Source By Gloria Rebecca Gomez (Writers) News From the States
