Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) News

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. This week, the biggest headline is EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announcing the single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history alongside President Trump, scrapping the Obama-era Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding and all federal GHG emission standards for vehicles from 2012 to 2027 and beyond, saving Americans over $1.3 trillion in costs, according to the EPA press release. This caps a whirlwind of PFAS moves highlighted in EPA's February 6 announcement. They've launched the PFAS OUTreach Initiative to upgrade water systems nationwide tackling PFOA and PFOS, developed detection methods for 40 PFAS compounds in water, soil, and fish, and proposed TSCA reporting tweaks for streamlined safety data. Enforcement ramps up with cleanups like Brunswick Airport in Maine, providing bottled water to residents. A new coordinating group of senior leaders will drive regs under TSCA, Safe Drinking Water Act, and Superfund. On budget, the White House FY2027 proposal slashes EPA funding by 52% to $4.2 billion, gutting state revolving funds by $2.5 billion and climate programs, but boosting Superfund to $290 million and $122 million for drinking water. Other shifts include proposing microplastics on the Contaminant Candidate List with comments open till soon, and extending Risk Management Program rule comments to May 11, easing chemical facility rules amid fewer incidents. For Americans, cleaner affordable water and lower vehicle costs mean real relief, but rollbacks on chemical safety could heighten disaster risks near 11,000 facilities, experts warn. Businesses gain from deregulation and streamlined permitting—like a one-year NEPA deadline—but face PFAS liability and testing mandates. States get less grant cash, straining local cleanups, while international ties stay steady sans climate pacts. EPA spokesperson Mike Bastasch says, “All regulatory decisions are guided by the best available science, the law, and President Trump's agenda.” Watch spring 2026 for PFAS drinking water rule finalization and PFAS destruction guidance updates. Citizens, comment on microplastics or chemical rules at epa.gov by May 11, or join PFAS community outreach. Next, track FY2027 budget fights in Congress. For more, visit epa.gov/newsreleases. Thanks for tuning in—subscribe now! This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. The biggest headline this week: EPA Administrator Lee M. Zeldin signed a final rule on April 8 delaying the start of PFAS reporting under TSCA Section 8(a)(7), postponing what was set for April 13 to give companies more time with updated tools and a revised rule coming later this year, per EPA's official announcement. This ties into broader moves on forever chemicals. EPA launched PFAS OUT on April 14, targeting 3,000 water systems with PFOA and PFOS challenges—about 2% nationwide—for early tech assistance via RealWaterTA, years ahead of mandates. They're also advancing TSCA reviews for four chemicals like HHCB and phthalic anhydride, with draft risk docs out now; submit comments by May 29, and join the SACC peer review May 26 prep or June 8-12 meetings. Regulatory fronts heat up too: EPA proposed extending PCE and CTC compliance to December 2027 for non-feds—comments due today, April 27. They finalized PEPO NESHAP tweaks for ethylene oxide on March 18, adding testing every five years. On air, a March 17 proposal rescinds some EtO sterilization standards, comments by May 1. And the draft sixth Contaminant Candidate List from April 6 flags microplastics for the first time among 75 chemicals—feedback by June 5. For Americans, this means cleaner tap water sooner, shielding families from PFAS-linked health risks without rushed burdens. Businesses get breathing room on reporting and compliance, easing costs for manufacturers. States like Minnesota extended their PFAS deadlines to September 15, syncing efforts. No big international angles here, but it bolsters U.S. leadership on global pollutants. Experts note these steps balance safety and feasibility—EPA calls peer reviews "essential for integrity and transparency." Watch the PFAS final rule this year, oil/gas emissions proposal comments by June 22, and CCL decisions. Dive deeper at epa.gov, regulations.gov for dockets, or RealWaterTA. Listeners, your voice matters—comment now on open rules. Thanks for tuning in—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. I'm your host, diving into the agency's biggest move this week: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin signed a final rule on April 8 delaying the start of PFAS reporting under TSCA Section 8(a)(7), pushing back the original April 13 window to give companies more time amid portal delays, as confirmed in EPA's pre-publication notice. This tops a flurry of chemical safety actions. EPA proposed extending compliance for perchloroethylene and carbon tetrachloride risk rules, pushing non-federal exposure plans to December 20, 2027—comments due April 27. They're advancing reviews of four chemicals like HHCB and phthalic anhydride, with public comments by May 29 and a SACC peer review June 8-12. On air toxics, EPA finalized ethylene oxide standards for polyether polyols production and amended rules for chemical manufacturing area sources, adding leak detection and electronic reporting. They also proposed keeping current emissions rules for oil and gas facilities—comments by June 22—and launched PFAS OUT, targeting 3,000 water systems for early PFOA/PFOS cleanup support via RealWaterTA. Plus, WRAP 2.0 promotes recycled water for industry and data centers through state partnerships, announced April 22. For American citizens, these steps mean safer drinking water and less exposure to forever chemicals years ahead of mandates, protecting public health. Businesses gain breathing room—PFAS reporters avoid rushed filings, while manufacturers face clearer phase-out paths. States like Minnesota extended their own deadlines to September, easing local burdens, and local governments get tools for water reuse without new regs. Experts note this balances safety with feasibility; EPA stresses "radical transparency" in reviews. Zeldin said the PFAS delay ensures "updated guidance and tools." Watch the May 26 SACC prep meeting and June deadlines. Submit comments via regulations.gov. Citizens, check EPA's PFAS resources or RealWaterTA for local water system help—your input shapes these rules. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. This week’s top headline: EPA finalized a game-changing rule slashing toxic air pollution from chemical plants, targeting carcinogens like ethylene oxide and chloroprene, set to cut over 6,200 tons of hazards yearly and shield hundreds of thousands near facilities. EPA reports these standards, announced April 9, will enforce stricter emissions limits, fenceline monitoring, and no more exemptions during malfunctions, building on risk assessments for synthetic organic chemical and polymers plants. In PFAS fights, the agency issued its fourth TSCA test order March 25, proposed health study submissions for 16 chemicals March 26, and released updated guidance April 9 on destroying PFAS wastes. TRI data shows toxic releases dropped 21% since 2013, with air emissions down 26%. Enforcement hit Sasol Chemicals with a $1.4 million settlement April 9 for Clean Air Act violations after a 2022 fire. For Americans, cleaner air means fewer cancer risks—EPA estimates major health wins. Businesses face compliance costs but technology-neutral options for heavy-duty vehicle GHG standards through 2032. States prep for CWA hazardous substance response plans, effective May 28, with submissions due in 36 months. No big international ripples here. EPA Administrator Michael Regan said, “These protections deliver critical health safeguards to communities overburdened by pollution.” Experts note fenceline monitoring will track real-time exposures. Mark your calendars: Draft risk evals out now with 60-day comments; May 13 webinar at 3 p.m. EDT—email Chloe Durand by May 7 to speak. Final chemical plant rules kick in 60 days post-Federal Register. Watch for GAO’s review of new chemicals program and PFAS drinking water regs enforcement starting July. Dive deeper at epa.gov/newsreleases or TRI data. Submit comments if affected—your voice shapes these rules. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Hey listeners, welcome to this week's EPA update. The biggest headline? On April 13, EPA postponed the start of reporting for the TSCA PFAS rule, delaying the original April kickoff for manufacturers to disclose forever chemical data from 2011 to 2022, according to LawBC reports. This gives businesses breathing room as EPA finalizes revisions later this year. Key moves include the new PFAS OUT initiative, announced April 14, targeting 3,000 water systems with PFOA and PFOS challenges—about 2% nationwide—to cut exposure ahead of regs via technical aid like RealWaterTA. EPA also proposed extending PCE compliance to December 2027, with comments due April 27. They're advancing reviews on chemicals like HHCB and phthalic anhydride, with SACC peer meetings May 26 and June 8-12, comments by May 29. Plus, the draft sixth CCL under SDWA lists microplastics for the first time among 75 chemicals, comments by June 5. Final rules tightened NESHAP for polyols and chemical manufacturing, adding leak detection and electronic reporting. For Americans, this means safer tap water sooner, dodging health risks from PFAS in fish, soil, and more—EPA now detects 40 compounds. Businesses face streamlined reporting but must prep phase-outs and audits to avoid enforcement. States get partnership boosts for cleanups, like consent orders at contaminated sites. No big international ripples yet. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin says these steps ensure "drinking water safe from microplastics and pharmaceuticals." Watch final PFAS reporting rules this year and CCL regs. Dive deeper at epa.gov, submit comments via regulations.gov. Your voice matters—engage now. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome back to the Quiet Please podcast, where we break down the EPA's biggest moves and what they mean for you. This week, the standout headline is the EPA's confirmation of a delay in the April 2026 TSCA PFAS reporting window, announced April 9, giving businesses breathing room on forever chemicals. Originally set to kick off today for manufacturers handling PFAS from 2011 to 2022, the window's pushed back 60 days after a revised final rule drops later this year, with fresh guidance and tools. EPA's streamlining by exempting some PFAS categories and possibly shortening the six-month period to three. According to Akin Gump's PFAS Press, this resolves uncertainty after portal delays and a proposed rollback. This builds on 2025 wins like the PFAS OUTreach Initiative connecting water systems to upgrades, new detection methods for 40 PFAS in water, soil, and fish, and defending PFOA/PFOS as hazardous under CERCLA. Enforcement's ramping up with cleanups at sites like Maine's Brunswick Airport. Meanwhile, EPA's proposing microplastics for its Contaminant Candidate List—the first time—plus a $144 million push with HHS to study them and pharmaceuticals in drinking water. Public comments due June 5 at regulations.gov, docket EPA-HQ-OW-2022-0946. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin called it "a landmark set of actions" to answer families' demands on tap water safety. For American citizens, cleaner water means less exposure to these hidden threats in everyday drinking sources. Businesses face lighter immediate reporting loads but must prep for stricter data demands and enforcement. States and locals get support via partnerships for testing and cleanups, easing compliance burdens. Watch for the PFAS rule finalization this year and microplastics determinations. Dive deeper at epa.gov/pfas or regulations.gov. If microplastics worry you, submit comments now—your voice shapes the rules. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome back to the Environmental Update. This week, the EPA made waves with a major move that could reshape how we think about what's in our drinking water. On Thursday, the agency proposed putting microplastics and pharmaceuticals on the official list of contaminants to monitor in drinking water for the very first time. This is significant because it's the opening move in a longer regulatory process that could eventually lead to new drinking water standards for these substances across the country. According to the EPA, microplastics are one of eighty eight unregulated contaminants being evaluated for potential future regulation. While the agency acknowledges significant data gaps in understanding the health risks from these tiny plastic particles, the proposal signals growing concern about what's flowing through our taps. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin framed this action as responding to Americans worried about plastics and pharmaceuticals in their drinking water, and it also appears to be a nod to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s health advocacy movement, which has been pushing the agency to crack down harder on environmental contaminants. Here's how the process works. No more than thirty of the eighty eight contaminants will actually move forward to a monitoring program where utilities will test their water supplies. After the EPA gathers data on how frequently these contaminants appear and at what levels, the agency will decide whether to regulate at least five of them. That decision could take years, but it's a crucial first step. Listeners can submit public comments on this proposal through June fifth on regulations dot gov. In other EPA news this week, the agency finalized revisions to oil and natural gas industry regulations. On April fourth, the EPA adjusted compliance requirements related to monitoring and testing procedures for methane emissions, estimates showing this will save the industry two point five billion dollars between now and twenty thirty eight. The changes focused on two technical aspects related to flaring procedures and monitoring requirements. On the PFAS front, the EPA continues its aggressive push to address per and polyfluoroalkyl substances across the country. The agency developed new methods to detect forty different PFAS compounds in everything from wastewater to fish tissue, expanding their ability to identify contamination. The agency is also revising compliance dates for drinking water standards to ensure water systems can successfully implement the new regulations. For listeners, the key takeaway is this: the EPA is actively reshaping environmental standards on multiple fronts. If you're concerned about water quality or work in industries affected by these changes, staying informed is essential. Visit EPA dot gov for more details and to submit any comments before deadlines pass. Thank you for tuning in to the Environmental Update. Please subscribe for more coverage of regulatory changes that impa

Welcome back, listeners, to your weekly EPA update. This week, the biggest headline is EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin's bombshell move to designate microplastics and pharmaceuticals as contaminants in drinking water for the first time, as reported by Phys.org on April 3, 2026. Zeldin said they're responding directly to Americans worried about plastics and drugs in their tap water, tying into Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s push for cleaner sources. On PFAS forever chemicals, EPA's February 6 press release recapped 2025 wins like launching the PFAS OUTreach Initiative to upgrade water systems nationwide and new detection methods for 40 compounds in water, soil, and fish. They're revising drinking water rules with a final PFAS rule expected this spring, per the Unified Agenda, and extended TSCA reporting deadlines to October 13, 2026, giving businesses more prep time, according to Crowell & Moring alerts. Enforcement is ramping up too: FY2025 saw EPA secure over $6 billion in compliance commitments, clean up 60 million cubic yards of waste, and hit polluters with $1.16 billion in penalties, per OECA results. Meanwhile, they've proposed delaying Clean Water Act facility response plans to 2030 for better tools and boosted biofuels, finalizing Renewable Fuel Standards to replace 300,000 barrels of oil daily in 2026-2027, strengthening farm incomes as Zeldin noted. For Americans, this means safer water from microplastics, PFAS, and drugs, but watch rising fuel costs from biofuel mandates. Businesses face new reporting and cleanups, though delays ease burdens; states get partnership aid via outreach. No big international ripples yet. Experts like Hunton Andrews Kurth predict more testing and enforcement ahead. Comments on the CWA delay are due today, April 6—jump in at regulations.gov. Keep eyes on the spring PFAS rule and summer E15 ethanol sales. For details, visit epa.gov. If you're near a comment deadline, submit your input now. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. This week, the biggest headline is the EPA's February 6 press release spotlighting massive 2025 wins on forever chemicals, or PFAS, with plans to ramp up testing, enforcement, and community outreach in 2026, according to the agency's own announcement. They launched the PFAS OUTreach Initiative to help every public water system upgrade against PFOA and PFOS contamination, developed detection methods for 40 PFAS types in water, soil, even fish tissue, and defended hazardous substance designations under CERCLA for cleanup liability. Enforcement hit hard too: EPA's Office of Enforcement wrapped FY 2025 with 2,127 civil cases—the most in nine years—securing over $6 billion in compliance commitments and cleaning 60 million cubic yards of contaminated land and water. On the regulatory front, PFAS reporting under TSCA got pushed to start April 13, 2026, with most deadlines by October 13, as EPA's interim rule explains, giving companies breathing room amid tech glitches. They're also proposing to delay Clean Water Act facility response plans to June 2030 for better compliance tools, with comments due April 6. And under Administrator Lee Zeldin, expect more dereg: reviews of 31 rules, including rescinding the 2009 greenhouse gas endangerment finding and delaying vehicle emissions standards. For Americans, this means safer tap water from PFAS crackdowns but potential breaks on climate regs affecting air quality. Businesses face evolving reporting—prep now, especially in Minnesota where state PFAS disclosures kick in January 1—while facing enforcement risks. States and locals get partnership boosts via the new EPA coordinating group for practical fixes. No big international angles this week. EPA Administrator Zeldin says they're crafting "durable" policies per the best law reading. Watch spring 2026 for finalized drinking water rule tweaks and PFAS final rules. Dive deeper at epa.gov/pfas, submit comments on proposed delays via regulations.gov, and stay engaged—your voice shapes cleanups. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, where we cut through the headlines to show how agency moves hit your daily life. This week’s biggest story: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, alongside President Trump, rolled out the single largest deregulatory action in US history by rescinding the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding and repealing all motor vehicle GHG emission standards under the Clean Air Act, finalized February 12th, according to the EPA’s official rule. This blockbuster saves taxpayers over $1.3 trillion while freeing auto makers from future GHG reporting and controls for all highway vehicles, past and present. EPA press secretary Brigit Hirsch told Chemical & Engineering News they’re prioritizing more rollbacks in 2026, like delaying Biden-era vehicle emission rules for model years 2027 and beyond by two years. Zeldin stated, “The Trump EPA is committed to ensuring life-saving medical devices remain available... without unnecessary exposure to communities,” tying into their March 13th proposal to weaken ethylene oxide limits for commercial sterilizers—reversing 2024 rules that would’ve cut 90% of emissions and slashed cancer risks for 92% of exposed people, per Earthjustice analysis. For American citizens, this means lower energy costs and reliable medical supplies like syringes, but critics like NRDC warn of buried climate data and unchecked pollution. Businesses cheer $1.3 trillion in savings and supply chain security; states like California and a 24-state coalition are suing, as reported by Connecticut Mirror, forcing local governments to fill regulatory gaps. No big international ripples yet, but it signals US pullback from global climate pacts. Key deadline: Public comments on the EtO proposal close soon—check epa.gov to weigh in and protect your community. Watch for final rules on power plant GHG repeals and mercury standards early 2026. For deeper dives, visit epa.gov/newsreleases. If these rules spark concerns, submit comments today—your voice shapes the future. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to this week's EPA update. The Environmental Protection Agency just delivered what it's calling the single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history, and it's reshaping how America approaches climate and emissions standards. On February 12th, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced the rescission of the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding, effectively removing the legal foundation for federal regulation of greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles. This means the EPA has repealed all federal emissions standards for light-duty, medium-duty, and heavy-duty vehicles and engines. The administration estimates this action will save American taxpayers over 1.3 trillion dollars in compliance costs. The strategic approach here focuses on statutory authority under the Clean Air Act rather than debating climate science itself. Environmental groups, including the Sierra Club, American Lung Association, and Center for Biological Diversity, have already filed lawsuits challenging this decision, signaling years of legal battles ahead. Beyond vehicles, the EPA has also rolled back the 2024 Mercury and Air Toxics Standards for power plants, reverting to older, weaker pollution limits. This means reduced protections against mercury and hazardous air pollutants that cause serious neurological harm, particularly affecting communities near fossil fuel power plants. On the enforcement front, the EPA's Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance reported strong results for fiscal year 2025, concluding over 2,100 civil cases and securing more than 6 billion dollars in commitments to return facilities to compliance. The agency also blocked over 1.6 million pounds of illegal pesticides from entering the United States and obtained 65 years of combined prison sentences for environmental crimes. In regulatory updates, the EPA added sodium perfluorohexanesulfonate, a concerning PFAS chemical, to toxic chemical reporting requirements beginning January 2026, with first reports due by July 1st, 2027. The agency also extended the greenhouse gas reporting deadline for 2025 from March 31st to October 30th, 2026. These changes will significantly impact businesses transitioning away from stricter emissions standards, states managing air quality compliance, and citizens in industrial areas facing potentially increased pollution exposure. For citizens wanting more information or to weigh in on proposed rules, the EPA website provides comment periods and rulemaking details. Thank you for tuning in to this week's EPA developments. Be sure to subscribe for ongoing environmental policy updates. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Hey listeners, welcome to your weekly EPA update. This week's blockbuster headline? On February 12, 2026, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin signed the final rule rescinding the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding and repealing all federal GHG emission standards for light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles—the single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history, according to EPA's press release. This stems from a statutory rethink under the Clean Air Act, arguing global climate impacts don't qualify as local air pollution endangering public health. EPA also finalized updates adding sodium perfluorohexanesulfonate, or PFHxS-Na, to toxic chemical reporting lists, with first reports due July 1, 2027, at a low 100-pound threshold. On enforcement, FY 2025 wrapped with over 2,300 civil cases concluded—highest in nine years—securing $6 billion in compliance commitments and cleaning 60 million cubic yards of contaminated sites. Recent proposals include delaying Clean Water Act hazardous substance response plans from 2027 to 2030 for better tools, and sunsetting paper hazardous waste manifests by 2026's end, saving $28.5 million yearly while boosting tracking. EPA's eyeing ethylene oxide sterilization facility tweaks for legal consistency, and plans vehicle emission delays into 2026. For Americans, this means lower vehicle costs—no more billions in EV mandates—but critics like NRDC warn of buried climate data. Businesses cheer relief from GHG rules and reporting; expect lawsuits from Sierra Club and others challenging the rescission. States gain flexibility on water quality metals criteria via renewed partnerships. Zeldin says they're making rules "durable" per the best law reading. Comments due April 6 on water delays, May 4 on manifests. Watch for vehicle rule reconsiderations and permitting bills like PERMIT Act. Dive deeper at epa.gov, submit comments if affected. Your voice matters—engage now. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. This week’s bombshell: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin signed a final rule on February 12, 2026, rescinding the 2009 Endangerment Finding—the legal foundation for all federal greenhouse gas regulations from vehicles. EPA calls it the single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history, repealing GHG emission standards for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles and engines, saving an estimated $1.3 trillion for Americans through lower compliance costs. This stems from Supreme Court rulings like West Virginia v. EPA, which curbed agency power on climate rules. EPA argues the Clean Air Act doesn’t authorize regulating GHGs for global climate change, only local air pollution. They’re also extending the GHG reporting deadline from March 31 to October 30, 2026, giving businesses time to adapt proposed changes, and eyeing repeals for power plant standards early this year. For American citizens, this means cheaper cars and fuel—no more push toward pricey electric vehicles—putting billions back in your pockets. Businesses, especially auto makers and energy firms, gain massive relief from standards that forced costly overhauls. States and locals dodge stricter enforcement, freeing resources for roads and schools. Globally, it signals U.S. pullback from climate pacts, potentially straining talks. Lee Zeldin announced it alongside President Trump, saying it restores EPA to its core mission. Critics like Earthjustice blast it as bowing to polluters, and lawsuits hit the D.C. Circuit—challenges due by April 20, when the rule kicks in. Watch for power plant repeals and vehicle standard delays for 2027 models. Head to epa.gov for details or comment on open rules. Stay engaged—your voice matters on these changes. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. This week’s bombshell: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin signed a final rule on February 12, 2026, rescinding the 2009 Endangerment Finding—the foundation for all federal greenhouse gas regulations on vehicles. Kirkland and Ellis reports this as the single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history, repealing GHG emission standards for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles and engines. This move, effective April 20, 2026, argues the Clean Air Act limits EPA to local air pollution, not global climate effects, citing Supreme Court rulings like West Virginia v. EPA. Zeldin called it a return to statutory limits, saving businesses and consumers billions in compliance costs from forced EV shifts. EPA press releases echo this, while groups like Sierra Club have sued in D.C. Circuit—challenges due by April 20. Other shifts include extending the GHG reporting deadline from March 31 to October 30, 2026, per SBA Advocacy, giving facilities time amid rule changes. EPA also proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2026-2027, with 24 billion RINs required in 2026, tweaking imports and dropping eRINs. For Americans, this means cheaper cars and fuel without GHG mandates, but critics warn of unchecked emissions harming health. Businesses gain relief from standards, boosting auto and energy sectors. States face less federal pressure on vehicle rules, though some push back via lawsuits. No direct international ripple yet, but it signals U.S. deregulation. Experts like Aaron Szabo, EPA air office head, note plans to delay Biden-era truck emission rules into 2027 for review. Chemical & Engineering News says more rollbacks loom, like power plant GHG standards. Watch for court rulings post-April 20 and final GHG reporting tweaks by July. Dive deeper at epa.gov or sba.gov/advocacy. Citizens, submit comments on proposed fuel standards—your voice shapes this. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome back to the Quiet Please podcast, where we break down the news that shapes our world. This week, the Environmental Protection Agency dropped the single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history: rescinding its 2009 Endangerment Finding on greenhouse gases and repealing all federal GHG emission standards for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin signed the rule on February 12, 2026, alongside President Trump, arguing the Clean Air Act doesn't give EPA authority to regulate GHGs based on global climate change—only local or regional air pollution. Kirkland and Ellis reports this stems from Supreme Court rulings like West Virginia v. EPA, which curbed agency power on major questions. EPA calls the old standards futile, saying even zero U.S. vehicle emissions would barely dent global GHGs, while imposing billions in compliance costs that pushed electric vehicles over gas and diesel. For American citizens, this means lower car prices and fuel costs—no more forced EV shift—but critics like the Sierra Club and NRDC warn of unchecked climate pollution worsening health risks from heat and storms. Businesses, especially auto makers and energy firms, cheer the relief; Scout Environmental notes it could ripple to power plants and oil/gas rules, slashing red tape. States face uncertainty as lawsuits hit the D.C. Circuit—challenges must file by April 20, when the rule takes effect. No big international fallout yet, but it signals U.S. retreat from global climate pacts. EPA also extended the GHG reporting deadline from March 31 to October 30, 2026, per the Small Business Administration, giving companies time amid planned rule tweaks. Zeldin stated, "This ends EPA's overreach, saving jobs and innovation." Experts like those at Baker Botts predict broader stationary source repeals soon. Citizens, submit comments on related power plant rules via EPA.gov or join advocacy suits. Watch for early 2026 finals on coal plant toxics and power GHG repeals. Dive deeper at EPA.gov/newsreleases. If climate action matters, speak up now. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

# EPA's Historic Deregulation: What You Need to Know Welcome back to the show. This week brought what may be the most significant environmental policy shift in decades. On February 12th, the Environmental Protection Agency finalized its repeal of the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding, eliminating the legal foundation for federal climate regulations that have governed emissions from vehicles and power plants for over a decade and a half. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin called this the single largest act of deregulation in U.S. history, citing an estimated 1.3 trillion dollars in saved compliance costs. But what does that actually mean for you and your family? The endangerment finding was the scientific determination that greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane threaten public health and welfare. By rescinding it, the EPA concluded it lacks statutory authority under the Clean Air Act to regulate these emissions at all. The immediate impact includes the repeal of all federal greenhouse gas emission standards for light-duty cars, medium-duty vehicles, and heavy-duty trucks. Those emission rules you've heard about for model years 2027 and beyond? They're gone. For American families, especially those with asthma or respiratory conditions, public health advocates warn this removes protections that have been in place for years. Environmental groups argue the decision ignores decades of peer-reviewed research on climate impacts. For businesses, particularly automakers and fossil fuel companies, this eliminates costly compliance requirements and uncertainty around future regulations. The move has already sparked legal challenges from environmental groups and states who argue the EPA's reasoning contradicts scientific evidence and its own established authority. Legal experts expect these cases could reach the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the EPA also extended its greenhouse gas reporting deadline from March 31st to October 30th, 2026. Why? Because the agency may finalize rules removing the obligation for most facilities to report emissions data at all. The broader implication here is uncertainty. If this ruling survives legal challenges, it could unravel climate regulations for stationary sources like power plants and oil and gas operations. If it doesn't, we're looking at years of litigation that will freeze climate policy in place. What's next? The Supreme Court could weigh in, and Congress might intervene. For now, if you want to stay informed, track cases being filed by the Natural Resources Defense Council and Environmental Defense Fund. Make your voice heard through public comments on any related EPA actions. Democracy works when citizens engage. Thank you for tuning in. Be sure to subscribe for updates on how these policy shifts unfold and their real impacts on your community. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome back, listeners, to your weekly dive into EPA headlines. This week’s bombshell: On February 12, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, alongside President Trump, finalized the repeal of the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding—the legal backbone for federal climate rules under the Clean Air Act. Zeldin called it “the single largest act of deregulation in U.S. history,” projecting $1.3 trillion in saved costs for industries. This scraps GHG emission standards for cars, trucks, power plants, and more, shifting focus from global climate threats. Just last week, on February 27, EPA extended the GHG reporting deadline from March 31 to October 30, 2026, giving facilities like power plants extra time to adapt after proposed rule tweaks expected by July. Meanwhile, EPA’s June 2025 proposal sets Renewable Fuel Standards for 2026 at 9.02 billion gallons of advanced biofuel, rising to 9.46 in 2027, while cutting eRINs for renewable electricity. For American citizens, this means fewer mandates on vehicle fuel efficiency, potentially raising gas prices long-term but easing costs now—though critics like the Environmental Defense Fund warn of unchecked pollution harming respiratory health. Businesses cheer: automakers and fossil fuel firms dodge trillions in compliance, per EPA estimates, but face lawsuits and a state patchwork—California’s standards could clash without waivers. States and locals gain flexibility but shoulder more air quality burdens. Internationally, it signals U.S. retreat from climate pacts, straining ties. Experts at Baker Botts note expected litigation could hit the Supreme Court, creating uncertainty. Watch for separate rulemakings on stationary sources. Citizens, comment on fuel standards via EPA’s docket by the deadline, or track regs.epa.gov. Stay tuned for court battles and state responses. For deeper dives, visit epa.gov. If input’s open, submit now—your voice matters. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to this week's EPA update, where we dive into the agency's bold moves shaking up environmental policy. The biggest headline: On February 12, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, alongside President Trump, finalized the rescission of the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding and all motor vehicle GHG emission standards under the Clean Air Act. EPA argues it lacks statutory authority for these rules, claiming even zero U.S. vehicle emissions wouldn't materially affect global climate through 2100. This deregulatory bombshell scraps Obama-era tailpipe limits, easing burdens on auto manufacturers and consumers who've faced higher vehicle prices. Trump called it terminating a "disastrous" policy that "severely damaged the American auto industry." Businesses cheer lower compliance costs, but critics like the Environmental Defense Fund warn it'll spike carbon pollution, the biggest U.S. cut ever lost, endangering health from worse air quality. For everyday Americans, expect cheaper cars and gas savings short-term, though experts like Jenny Brennan from the Southern Environmental Law Center predict intensified coastal woes—faster sea level rise, killer heatwaves, and strained infrastructure in places like North Carolina. States face mixed bags: more flexibility for local industries, but potential cleanup costs from rising pollution. Internationally, it signals U.S. retreat from climate leadership, drawing lawsuits from health groups as of February 18. EPA's not stopping there. They launched a PFAS Coordinating Group on February 6 to unify efforts under TSCA, Superfund, and drinking water laws, accelerating cleanups and research. Added PFHxS-Na to Toxics Release Inventory for better tracking. Meanwhile, a Fluoride Assessment Plan is out for comment—due today, February 27—to rethink drinking water standards. Citizens, weigh in on fluoride via regulations.gov. Watch for power plant mercury rollbacks and TSCA modernization hearings. Stay tuned for court battles and PFAS deadlines. For more, visit epa.gov. Thank you for tuning in—subscribe now! This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. The biggest headline this week: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, alongside President Trump, finalized the single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history by rescinding the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding and repealing all federal GHG emission standards for new vehicles and engines from model year 2012 onward. EPA argues the Clean Air Act doesn't authorize regulating vehicle emissions for climate change, citing Supreme Court rulings like West Virginia v. EPA and the major questions doctrine. This caps a whirlwind of rollbacks. Just days earlier at Kentucky's Mills Creek Power Plant, EPA repealed Biden-era amendments to the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards for coal plants, sticking to the proven 2012 rules. Those have slashed mercury emissions 90% since pre-MATS levels, acid gases over 96%, and non-mercury metals more than 81%, saving $670 million in costs for lower energy bills. Deputy Administrator David Fotouhi said, "The 2012 MATS Rule is fully protective... This action follows the rule of law and will reduce the cost of generating baseload power." For American families, expect cheaper gas and electricity short-term, but health groups like the American Lung Association warn of more asthma attacks, ER visits, wildfires, and floods. Businesses in auto, oil, and coal cheer $1.3 trillion in projected savings and restored energy dominance. States face uncertainty—California's stricter standards may stay preempted without EPA waivers, recently nixed by Congress. Internationally, it signals U.S. retreat from climate leadership, straining Paris Agreement ties. Experts clash: Clean Air Task Force's Frank Sturges calls it "legal sophistry" ignoring stronger science, while EPA insists it's law-bound. Legal challenges are underway from Lung Association, nurses, and Earthjustice. Watch for methane rule reviews and court fights—the rule awaits publication, with suits already filed. Citizens, submit comments via EPA dockets or join public hearings. Stay tuned for court rulings. For more, visit epa.gov. Thanks for tuning in—subscribe now! This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Hey listeners, welcome to your weekly EPA update. This week's bombshell: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, alongside President Trump, just finalized the single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history—repealing the 2009 Endangerment Finding on greenhouse gases and scrapping all federal GHG emission standards for vehicles from model years 2012 through 2027 and beyond. EPA's own announcement calls it a $1.3 trillion win for taxpayers, restoring consumer choice by ditching mandates like off-cycle credits and the unpopular start-stop tech in cars. This policy reversal, rooted in recent Supreme Court rulings like Loper Bright and West Virginia v. EPA, argues the Clean Air Act never gave the agency authority to regulate GHGs for climate change— that's Congress's call. It doesn't touch rules on smog or toxic air pollutants, but critics are furious. Clean Air Task Force attorney Frank Sturges says, "No amount of legal sophistry can evade the science—greenhouse gases endanger public health, and we'll challenge this in court." World Resources Institute's David Widawsky warns it hikes energy bills, insurance costs, and grocery prices from hotter weather and lost crops, hitting families hard. For American citizens, expect cheaper cars and trucks upfront, but groups like the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America note rising asthma risks—9 to 11 daily deaths linked to pollution triggers worsened by climate. Businesses cheer lower compliance costs, especially auto makers and truck fleets. States lose federal GHG mandates but face lawsuits; locals might see more affordable goods via reduced trucking expenses. Internationally, it signals U.S. pullback from climate pacts, straining ties. Legal challenges from health groups kick off soon—watch court dockets. Citizens, check EPA's website for rule details and submit comments if new actions arise. Stay tuned for court battles and Congress moves. For more, visit epa.gov. Thanks for tuning in—subscribe now! This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Hey listeners, welcome to your quick dive into the EPA's biggest moves this week. The top headline? On February 12th, President Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced the single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history: rescinding the 2009 endangerment finding on greenhouse gases and scrapping all GHG emission standards for light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles from 2012 through 2027 and beyond. Trump called it a "disastrous Obama-era policy that severely damaged the American auto industry and massively drove up prices for consumers." Zeldin added, "The red tape has been cut. Manufacturers will no longer be burdened by measuring, compiling, or reporting greenhouse gas emissions for vehicles and engines. And the forced transition to electric vehicles is over." This ties into the FY 2026 budget, which prioritizes energy independence by reevaluating rules like the Clean Power Plan 2.0, methane regs for oil and gas, Mercury and Air Toxics Standards for coal plants, and over 25 hazardous air pollutant rules. They're launching an Office of State Air Partnerships for better coordination on permitting, streamlining state implementation plans, and proposing at least four new source performance standards. Programs like Diesel Emissions Reduction and Radon grants face cuts to eliminate federal overreach, while Superfund shifts to taxes for cleanup and PFAS gets targeted with new methods. For American citizens, expect lower car prices and cheaper energy—families save big on vehicles without forced EV mandates. Businesses, especially auto, oil, gas, and power sectors, gain flexibility, cutting costs and boosting jobs; one plant already reversed closure. States like California disagree—Governor Newsom slammed it as "pro-pollution," prepping lawsuits and own rules—while the U.S. Climate Alliance calls it a denial of science. Local governments see streamlined air permitting but potential backlash on backlogged plans. Experts at the World Resources Institute warn of riskier lives: hotter summers hiking bills, extreme weather spiking insurance, lost crops raising food prices. No international angles yet, but it prioritizes U.S. economy over global GHG pacts. Watch for FY26 rule proposals on power plants and oil wastewater by year-end, plus Class VI well permitting standards. Citizens, comment on epa.gov dockets or contact your reps—public input shapes these. Next, track state lawsuits and budget congressional fights. For more, hit epa.gov/newsreleases. Tune in next time, subscribe, and thanks for listening. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome back to your weekly EPA update, listeners. This week, the biggest headline from the Environmental Protection Agency is their aggressive push on PFAS forever chemicals, with Administrator Lee Zeldin announcing major year-one wins under President Trump, including advanced drinking water standards for PFOA and PFOS, Superfund listings, and treatment systems protecting over 9,500 households in California alone. EPA's rolling out real action: they've finalized consent orders for PFAS foam removal at Maine's Brunswick Airport, installed 108 water treatment systems in New Jersey, and updated disposal guidance annually. Zeldin says, "Keeping Americans safe from PFAS risks has been a top priority... We're locating it, stopping it from drinking water, cleaning it up, and holding polluters accountable." They're also launching a coordinating group across offices to speed research and enforcement. On deregulation, EPA's eyeing 2026 rollbacks like rescinding the 2009 climate endangerment finding and delaying Biden-era vehicle emission rules for cars and trucks through 2028, per C&EN reports. Farmers get a win too: strongest-ever dicamba protections for cotton and soy, halving application rates to 1 lb per acre max for two seasons, plus new temperature and buffer rules. And they've proposed Renewable Fuel Standards, setting advanced biofuel at 9.02% for 2026. For American citizens, cleaner water from PFAS cleanup means safer health for families, but looser emissions could mean more air pollution—watchdogs note enforcement cases dropped 76% last year. Businesses cheer repair rights for farm equipment, saving costs, and dicamba limits balance weed control with drift risks; chemical firms worry repeal shakes investments. States gain from partnerships on Superfund sites, though some face haze program tweaks. Experts like former EPA deputy Stan Meiburg warn climate science is stronger now, so repeal fights loom. Deadlines: dicamba rules kick in next season; comment on water certification by February 17. Keep eyes on early 2026 final rules for power plant emissions and endangerment. Dive deeper at epa.gov/newsreleases. If you're near a site, report PFAS tips via their hotline. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Here's your EPA podcast script: --- The Trump administration's EPA is taking a major swing at air quality regulations this week, and it's shaking up how the government values clean air itself. According to Manufacturing Dive, the EPA is moving to overturn a Biden-era standard that lowered the annual limit for fine particulate matter from twelve micrograms per cubic meter to nine. That rule, which took effect in May 2024, was projected to prevent forty-five hundred premature deaths and deliver between twenty-two and forty-six billion dollars in health benefits. But manufacturers say the stricter standard is unachievable, and the Trump EPA agrees. Here's what's really significant: the EPA just announced it will no longer calculate a dollar value for health benefits when changing pollution regulations. According to ABC News, the agency says the modeling isn't robust enough, though Administrator Zeldin posted that the EPA will still consider lives saved. Environmental experts worry this fundamentally changes how future rules get evaluated, potentially stacking the deck in favor of more pollution. But the EPA isn't rolling back everything. The agency is actually cracking down on diesel engine manufacturers. As reported by the EPA directly, Administrator Zeldin is demanding detailed data on diesel exhaust fluid system failures that have plagued farmers and truckers. The EPA already issued guidance last August allowing farmers and independent repair shops to fix their own equipment, addressing years of frustration in agricultural communities. On water protection, the EPA proposed new rules on January thirteenth that would restrict state and tribal authority under the Clean Water Act. Environmental groups say this weakens a critical safeguard, though the agency says it's streamlining the certification process. The comment deadline is February seventeenth, so listeners interested in water quality should act quickly if they want their voices heard. The agency is also reassessing vehicle emissions rules and renewable fuel standards, signaling a shift toward balancing environmental goals with industry concerns. For farmers and businesses watching permitting timelines, the coming months will be crucial as these rules reshape. Head to quiet please dot ai for full coverage and resources. Thank you for tuning in, and please subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Hey listeners, welcome to your weekly EPA update. The biggest headline this week: On February 1, the EPA advanced a proposal to reverse the Biden-era Good Neighbor Plan, scrapping federal emissions limits on industries like steel mills, with trade groups cheering the move for more flexible state-led standards, according to Steel Market Update. This fits a broader deregulatory push under Administrator Lee Zeldin. The agency is prioritizing rescinding the 2009 endangerment finding that underpins climate rules, delaying Biden vehicle emission standards for 2027 models—like tighter light-duty car rules and the Clean Trucks Plan—and revisiting PM2.5 air quality standards, which Biden tightened to prevent 4,500 premature deaths yearly, per Manufacturing Dive and C&EN reports. EPA press secretary Brigit Hirsch says they're making rules "durable" by focusing on law and costs. They're also dropping monetary estimates of pollution health benefits, like lives saved from cutting fine particles and ozone, shifting emphasis to industry expenses, as noted in Axios. A bright spot: EPA launched its Environmental Education Grant Program, seeking applicants by March 3 for up to 16 awards of $200,000 to $250,000 each to boost local stewardship—webinar on February 5. Impacts hit hard. Businesses and steelmakers gain breathing room from streamlined permitting, like the proposed Clean Water Act Section 401 tweaks to speed infrastructure without state overreach, per EPA announcements. States get more power on air plans, approving eight revisions in phase one. But citizens face risks—critics warn rollbacks could spike hospitalizations and deaths, complicating ozone compliance. Some chemical firms even want to keep the endangerment finding, says Bracewell's Frank Maisano, after adapting to it. Quote from Zeldin: Rules need reworking to "ease costs for businesses and give power back to the states." Public comment deadlines loom—extended to late March on pesticide registration streamlining via PR Notice 2026-NEW, docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2025-2863. Jump in at regulations.gov. Watch for final vehicle delays and PM2.5 court fights soon. Dive deeper at epa.gov or grants.gov. Listeners, your voice matters—submit comments now. Thanks for tuning in—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome back to your weekly EPA update, listeners. This week, the Environmental Protection Agency's biggest move is proposing to revoke parts of the Biden-era Good Neighbor Plan, a step to ease air quality rules for upwind states and advance cooperative federalism, as announced on their official site and covered by the Environmental Defense Fund on January 28. Under Administrator Lee Zeldin, the EPA is pushing deregulation hard in 2026. They're prioritizing repeal of the 2009 endangerment finding on greenhouse gases, which underpins climate rules—public comments closed in September, but lawsuits are slowing it, according to Chemical & Engineering News. Zeldin's team also plans to delay vehicle emission standards for cars, trucks, and heavy-duty engines through 2026, giving two extra years to rethink Biden rules, EPA press secretary Brigit Hirsch confirmed to C&EN. On chemicals, a final TSCA risk evaluation flagged unreasonable health risks from 1,3-butadiene for workers in 11 industries, per EPA's January 5 notice. They proposed a drinking water limit for perchlorate at 20 micrograms per liter to protect families, especially kids. For businesses, this means lighter loads—streamlined pesticide registrations via a new PR Notice and delisting 2-BEB as a hazardous air pollutant cut compliance costs. Past Safer Choice Partner of the Year winners eliminated 830 million pounds of hazardous chemicals and saved 21 billion gallons of water. Citizens gain cleaner air potentially, but downwind communities worry about shifted ozone burdens, as Clean Air Task Force notes. States get more flexibility, boosting local control. Newly confirmed Assistant Administrator Jeffrey Hall is ramping up enforcement against illegal pesticide imports to protect farms and communities, EPA said December 23. Proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2026 set advanced biofuel at 9.02 billion gallons. Watch for SACC peer reviews on 10 high-priority chemicals in early and mid-2026, plus a January 29 roundtable on water quality certifications. Citizens, nominate for Safer Choice awards or comment on proposals at epa.gov. Next, track vehicle rule delays and endangerment repeal progress. Dive deeper at epa.gov/newsreleases. Your voice matters—submit input today. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. This week's biggest headline: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin unveiled 500 top environmental wins from President Trump's first year back, according to an EPA news release on January 23. From cutting hazardous chemicals by 830 million pounds to saving 21 billion gallons of water, these wins highlight a shift toward practical results over red tape. Diving into key developments, the agency is ramping up deregulation in 2026. C&EN reports EPA plans to push forward on rescinding the 2009 endangerment finding—the science backbone for climate rules—despite lawsuits slowing progress after public comments closed in September. They're also delaying Biden-era vehicle emission standards for 2027 models, keeping 2026 levels for two more years to reconsider tighter rules on cars, trucks, and heavy-duty engines. EPA press secretary Brigit Hirsch says this makes rules "durable" under the law. On enforcement, a new internal memo scraps Biden-era guidance for a "compliance first" approach. Meanwhile, EPA announced draft notices streamlining pesticide registrations and a final risk evaluation for 1,3-butadiene, flagging health risks for workers in 11 industries. They proposed delisting 2-BEB from hazardous air pollutants and a drinking water standard for perchlorate at 20 micrograms per liter. For citizens, looser rules could mean lower energy costs and fewer mandates, but experts like former deputy Stan Meiburg warn rescinding the endangerment finding lacks strong science amid robust climate data. Businesses cheer relief—chemical firms have adapted to rules and favor stability, per industry analyst Frank Maisano—while states gain flexibility in permitting. No major international ripples yet. Watch for peer reviews on 10 high-priority chemicals in early 2026 and renewable fuel standard proposals for 2026-2027 volumes. Stay informed at epa.gov. Comment on proposed rules via regulations.gov—your voice shapes this. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your environmental update. The EPA just announced it delivered five hundred environmental wins during President Trump's first year back in the White House, marking a significant shift in the agency's regulatory direction. But what does that really mean for you, your community, and your wallet? Over the past year, the EPA has prioritized environmental deregulation, and that momentum is accelerating into 2026. According to recent reporting from Chemical and Engineering News, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced in March that the agency would review thirty-one regulatory actions for possible rollback. The agency is working hard to develop policies they say will make these rules more durable. Here's where it gets consequential. One of the EPA's biggest targets is rescinding the 2009 endangerment finding, the scientific foundation underlying most federal climate rules. Former acting EPA Deputy Administrator Stan Meiburg warned that the current research supporting climate change is actually even stronger now than when this finding was originally established, and it has already withstood multiple legal challenges. Yet the current administration is moving forward anyway. The EPA is also delaying vehicle emission standards. The agency plans to keep 2026 standards in place for another two years, giving themselves more time to reconsider two Biden era rules covering light and medium duty vehicles plus the Clean Trucks Plan that required cuts to nitrogen oxide emissions from heavy duty engines. Here's the interesting twist. While the Trump administration pushes deregulation, the chemical industry actually wants to keep the endangerment finding. According to Bracewell consulting, chemical companies, though originally skeptical of the finding, have already incorporated required changes into their operations and fear the uncertainty of another major shift. For everyday Americans, vehicle emission delays could mean slower progress on air quality improvements. For businesses, the uncertainty around climate regulations creates planning challenges, though energy and industrial sectors may see reduced compliance costs. States face questions about how to maintain their own environmental standards. The EPA is also expanding investigations into illegal pesticide and chemical smuggling to protect national security and agricultural integrity, marking one area where enforcement is actually intensifying. Watch for final rules on greenhouse gas emissions standards likely coming in early 2026. The House may also pass permitting reform bills like the SPEED Act and PERMIT Act, which could reshape how infrastructure projects get approved. For more details, visit EPA dot gov or check your state environmental agency's website. Your voice matters. Public comment periods on proposed rules are your chance to weigh in. Thanks for tuning in and please subscribe. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out quietplease dot ai. For more http://www.

# EPA Under New Direction: What You Need to Know Welcome to this week's environmental update. If you've been paying attention to what's happening at the EPA, things are shifting dramatically, and these changes could affect everything from the air you breathe to the infrastructure projects being built in your community. The biggest story this week centers on the EPA's fundamental approach to how it evaluates pollution rules. The agency announced it will no longer assign a dollar value to the health benefits of clean air. According to reporting from ABC News, the EPA previously calculated how many lives would be saved and illnesses prevented by reducing pollution, but that calculation is now being stripped away. Administrator Lee Zeldin says the agency will still consider health impacts, but critics worry this change makes it far easier to roll back protections. Environmental experts argue this is reckless given mountains of medical science linking air pollution to asthma, heart disease, and other serious health problems. This move is just one piece of a larger puzzle. The EPA is also proposing to repeal the 2009 endangerment finding, the scientific determination that greenhouse gas emissions threaten public health and welfare. That single finding underpins virtually every federal climate regulation. According to the Chemical Heritage Foundation's reporting, even some in the chemical industry have expressed concern about this potential repeal, as many companies have already restructured their operations around current climate rules. On the water front, the EPA just proposed changes to Clean Water Act Section 401 that would significantly limit states' and tribes' ability to block projects that threaten water quality. The agency says this streamlines permitting for critical infrastructure, but the Environmental Protection Network argues it strips away state rights and empowers polluters instead. The EPA also received an 8.8 billion dollar budget from the Senate, though that represents a 47 percent cut from the previous year. According to Waste Dive, funding will support Superfund cleanups and some PFAS research, but the reduced budget signals tighter constraints ahead. What does this mean for you? Low-income and minority communities typically face higher exposure to air pollution and could see their health risks increase. Businesses may see fewer regulatory hurdles, but environmental groups warn about potential liability issues down the road. State and local governments are losing tools to protect their own waterways. The next critical moment arrives when these proposed rules move into formal comment periods. If you want your voice heard, now is the time to engage with these proposals. Thank you for tuning in. Make sure to subscribe for more updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease dot ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. This week, the biggest headline is EPA's proposed rule to overhaul Clean Water Act Section 401, aiming to slash permitting delays for energy and infrastructure projects by curbing states' ability to block them over non-water issues. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said, "Today's proposal restores the Clean Water Act to its intended purpose, protecting America's water quality and ending the weaponization of the law that has been obstructing infrastructure and energy projects vital to our nation's economy." Key moves include a $1.1 million settlement with Home Market Foods over a deadly 2022 ammonia leak in Massachusetts, holding polluters accountable. EPA also proposed limiting states' power to veto oil and gas pipelines, proposed delisting 2-BEB from hazardous air pollutants, and set a strict 20 micrograms per liter goal for perchlorate in drinking water. They're pushing to delay Biden-era vehicle emission rules for 2027 models, giving more review time, while advancing pesticide fee deadlines—due January 15—and expanding imports enforcement against illegal chemicals. For Americans, this means faster jobs from projects but potential risks if safeguards weaken—think cleaner water targets versus looser air rules. Businesses cheer streamlined permits unleashing growth, as Zeldin notes, though chemical firms worry about repealing the 2009 climate endangerment finding they've adapted to. States lose some veto power, shifting balance to feds. No big international ripples yet. Experts like former EPA deputy Stan Meiburg warn rescinding climate findings ignores stronger science. Watch early 2026 peer reviews on ten toxic chemicals and public comments on Section 401. Citizens, submit comments via EPA.gov on the 401 rule—your voice shapes it. For details, hit epa.gov/newsreleases. Next, track vehicle standards delays and TSCA evaluations. Tune in next week, subscribe now, and thanks for listening. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Good morning listeners, welcome to our environmental policy briefing. We're starting with a major development that could reshape how the EPA regulates chemicals across America. The Trump administration's Environmental Protection Agency is moving forward with sweeping deregulatory actions in 2026, and they're just getting started. The most significant headline this week involves the EPA's push to rescind the 2009 endangerment finding, which is the scientific foundation underlying federal climate regulations. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced in March that the agency would review thirty-one regulatory actions for possible rollback. According to recent reporting, the agency is finalizing a rule expected in early 2026 that would overturn this endangerment finding, along with rolling back vehicle emission standards that the Biden administration put in place. Here's what this means for listeners. The EPA is planning to delay stricter emission rules for light and medium duty vehicles and reconsider the Clean Trucks Plan that required cuts to nitrogen oxide emissions from heavy duty engines. The agency will keep current 2026 standards in place for another two years, buying time to reconsider those existing standards. Interestingly, not everyone in industry supports this move. According to environmental law experts, the chemical industry generally wants to keep the endangerment finding intact. Many chemical companies disagreed with the original finding but have already incorporated required changes into their processes, so repealing it would create uncertainty and cost them additional compliance headaches. Beyond climate rules, the EPA is tackling other major regulatory changes. The agency proposed broad PFAS reporting exemptions under the Toxic Substances Control Act, introducing industry-requested exemptions while narrowing who must report. There's a catch though—the reporting window is being compressed from six months to just three months beginning sixty days after the final rule takes effect. This means companies with complex supply chains need to prepare immediately. On the chemical front, the EPA announced final risk evaluations for five phthalate chemicals. The agency found unreasonable risks primarily to workers through inhalation during spray applications and manufacturing, but determined that consumer exposure levels do not pose unreasonable risks. This means regulation will focus on workplace protections rather than consumer product restrictions. Additionally, listeners should know that confidential business information claims made under the Toxic Substances Control Act are expiring this year. If your company filed a CBI claim in 2016, it will expire in 2026 unless you reassert and substantiate it. The EPA will begin notifying companies of expiring claims beginning in spring 2026. What should you watch for next? The final rules on the endangerment finding and vehicle emissions standards should arrive in early 2026. If you work in in

The headline this week from the Environmental Protection Agency is its continued push to roll back major climate and air pollution protections, while Congress moves to cut the agency’s budget back to roughly 2012 levels when you factor in inflation, according to reporting from the Center for Biological Diversity and Chemical and Engineering News. Chemical and Engineering News reports that EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin is prioritizing repealing the 2009 “endangerment finding” that says greenhouse gases threaten public health and welfare, the scientific backbone for many federal climate rules. EPA officials say they are reviewing public comments now and aim to move forward in 2026 with a rule that could gut EPA’s authority to regulate climate pollution from cars, trucks, and power plants. A senior EPA air official, Aaron Szabo, has already signaled plans to delay tougher Biden-era vehicle emission standards for cars and heavy-duty trucks, keeping 2026 standards in place longer and giving industry more time. At the same time, an EPA budget bill just passed by Congress would trim the agency’s funding by about 4 percent compared with last year, which environmental advocates say effectively returns EPA to 2012 funding levels once inflation is counted. That means fewer resources for inspections, enforcement, and community protection at exactly the moment when the agency is being asked to reconsider major safeguards on power plants, oil and gas operations, and toxic pollution. For everyday Americans, these moves could mean more soot and smog in the air they breathe and slower action on climate-fueled heatwaves, floods, and wildfires. Businesses that invested early in cleaner technologies may now be competing with companies that can pollute more cheaply if rules are weakened, while heavily regulated industries see short-term cost relief but face long-term legal and policy uncertainty. State and local governments, many of which have set their own climate and air quality goals, may find themselves filling gaps if federal protections retreat, or tangled in court fights over whose rules control. Internationally, efforts to unwind climate regulations and the core endangerment finding risk undercutting U.S. credibility in global climate negotiations. Looking ahead, listeners should watch for EPA’s final decisions on the endangerment finding, vehicle standards, and power plant rules, all expected to move in early to mid-2026, along with how the new budget shapes enforcement on the ground. To engage, listeners can submit comments on EPA proposals through regulations.gov when dockets open, attend local EPA listening sessions and Superfund open houses, and press their elected officials about how these shifts will affect health and climate resilience in their communities. Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss our next update. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai. For more http://www.quie

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, where we cut through the noise to spotlight what's changing our air, water, and world. This week’s top headline: The EPA just postponed its perchlorate drinking water proposal deadline to January 2, 2026, after the longest federal shutdown in history delayed things from November 21, 2025. Perchlorate, that sneaky chemical in rocket fuel, fireworks, and airbags, contaminates water in arid spots like the Southwest—think potential thyroid risks for kids and pregnant women. On regulatory fronts, EPA's tweaking HFC rules under the AIM Act to ease transitions. Higher-GWP equipment made before January 1, 2026, can now install until 2027 for variable refrigerant flow systems, and until 2026 for residential AC—buying time so builders aren't stuck with stranded inventory. Meanwhile, the proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2026-2027 slash RIN credits for imported biofuels to half, boosting U.S. energy independence and rural jobs. Total renewable volumes? Aiming for 24.02 billion gallons in 2026, up to 24.46 in 2027. Public comments close August 8, 2025, with final rule by October. These moves hit home differently. Citizens get safer tap water timelines and lower climate pollution from cleaner fuels and refrigerants—EPA's strategic plan eyes GHG cuts through 2026 models. Businesses face adaptation costs but gain domestic biofuel edges; importers take a hit. States and locals prep for WOTUS comment deadlines through January 5, 2026, shaping wetland protections. Globally, HFC phase-downs align with international pacts. EPA Administrator Michael Regan notes, "We're balancing innovation with safeguards." Experts at NRDC pushed the perchlorate delay, stressing the May 2027 final rule. Watch for RFS finalization this fall and WOTUS comments now. Dive deeper at epa.gov, submit input on regulations.gov. Your voice matters—comment today! Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. The biggest headline this week: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin just announced a major rollback of the Reactivation Policy, letting idled factories restart without full new permits unless emissions spike, as detailed in his September 18, 2025 memo. This clears decades of red tape for businesses eyeing comebacks. On the regulatory front, EPA proposed tweaking hydrofluorocarbon rules under the 2020 American Innovation Act, raising the global warming potential threshold for cold storage warehouses to 700 starting January 1, 2026, then tightening it again by 2032. They also extended deadlines for lab equipment to 2028 and eased installs for pre-2025 AC systems. Meanwhile, the perchlorate drinking water proposal deadline slipped to today, January 2, 2026, after a government shutdown delay, with final rules due by May 2027. And watch for the WOTUS definition narrowing—public comments close January 5—dropping interstate qualifiers to empower states, per Zeldin's statement: "EPA is delivering on President Trump’s promise... advancing cooperative federalism." These shifts hit hard. American citizens get cleaner air options without stranding fridges, but critics like Sierra Club's Erin Carey warn of weakened water protections risking pollution. Businesses win big—faster restarts and permitting reforms cut timelines, boosting jobs in manufacturing and energy. States gain flexibility on wetlands and haze rules, though local enforcers might tighten up. No big international ripples yet, but HFC changes align with global phase-downs. Key data: Renewable Fuel Standards propose 9.46 billion gallons of advanced biofuel for 2027. PFAS reporting deadline? Pushed to January 11, 2026, for most firms. Citizens, submit WOTUS comments by Monday via epa.gov. Upcoming: NSR preconstruction rule proposal in 2026, power plant GHG repeals early next year. Stay tuned for final rules and budget details at epa.gov. Engage now—your voice shapes this. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. This week, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced the biggest deregulatory action in U.S. history, launching 31 historic moves to slash red tape on air quality standards, hazardous pollutants, and energy programs, as detailed in the agency's official news release. Under Trump's second term, the EPA is rolling back major rules from the Obama and Biden eras. Key moves include proposing repeal of the 2009 Endangerment Finding on greenhouse gases, which underpinned vehicle and power plant emissions limits—standards that drove corporate average fuel economy up from 23 mpg in 2010 to 40 mpg this year. NZero reports June proposals to scrap carbon capture mandates for power plants, the second-largest U.S. GHG source at 25% of emissions. They're also narrowing Waters of the U.S. protections after December public sessions with the Army, easing rules for farmers and builders, and shifting enforcement to a compliance-first approach per a December OECA memo. Positive notes: $58 million in recycling grants awarded December 16, per Waste Dive, and cleanups like the historic oil removal at Dunsmuir Railyard. For American citizens, this means potentially lower energy bills and reliable power, but critics from EDF warn of risks like prolonged dirty air and formaldehyde cancer threats. Businesses in manufacturing and energy cheer billions in saved compliance costs and revived projects, while environmental groups brace for lawsuits. States gain flexibility on wetlands and haze rules, though some may challenge in court. No big international ripples yet. Zeldin stated, "These actions restore opportunities for American manufacturing and affordable energy for families." Experts note power sector changes could boost grid reliability amid demand surges. Watch 2026 final rules and court fights; vehicle standards face 2026 deadlines. Citizens, comment via regulations.gov on open proposals—your voice shapes this. Next, track WOTUS finals and recycling fund apps. Visit epa.gov for details. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. I'm your host, diving into the agency's biggest move this week: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin just announced 31 massive deregulatory actions, calling it the greatest day of deregulation in U.S. history, according to EPA's official news release. Under Zeldin's lead in Trump's second term, the EPA is rolling back Obama and Biden-era rules left and right. Key moves include proposing to rescind the 2009 Endangerment Finding on greenhouse gases like CO2 and methane, which could wipe out vehicle emission standards entirely, as detailed in The Regulatory Review. They're also reconsidering power plant emission limits, easing oil and gas rules with extended compliance deadlines, narrowing Waters of the United States protections, and revising wastewater standards for power plants to boost energy reliability—NZero reports these target about 25% of U.S. GHG emissions from power. On the enforcement front, EPA teamed up with Customs and Border Protection at the Port of Los Angeles to crack down on toxic imports like illegal pesticides from China. "At the Trump EPA, we’re committed to securing clean air, land, and water for all Americans," says EPA Assistant Administrator Jeffrey Hall. For Americans, this means potentially lower energy bills and more reliable power, but critics from groups like the Environmental Defense Fund warn of dirtier air and higher cancer risks from things like relaxed formaldehyde rules. Businesses in energy, manufacturing, and autos stand to save billions in compliance costs, per industry analyses, while states face fewer federal mandates but possible legal battles over wetlands and streams. Globally, it signals a U.S. pivot from climate leadership, straining ties with emission-focused partners. Data point: CAFE standards jumped from 23 mpg in 2010 to 40 mpg now, pushing EVs—but rollbacks could ease that to realistic levels, SEMA notes. Public comment periods are open now through early 2026; check epa.gov for deadlines. Watch for court challenges and final rules next year. Head to epa.gov/newsreleases for details, and submit comments if you're fired up. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

The Environmental Protection Agency is undertaking what Administrator Lee Zeldin calls the biggest deregulatory action in U.S. history, with 31 major rollbacks announced that are reshaping American environmental policy in dramatic ways. This summer and fall, the EPA launched an aggressive assault on decades of climate and pollution regulations. In June, the agency proposed repealing greenhouse gas emissions standards for power plants, which had been the cornerstone of Obama and Biden-era climate policy. Then in August, the EPA went further, proposing to eliminate all greenhouse gas standards for vehicles, from cars to heavy-duty trucks. The agency is also reconsidering the Endangerment Finding from 2009, the legal foundation that allowed the EPA to regulate carbon dioxide as a threat to public health in the first place. What does this mean for you? If you drive a car, fuel costs might drop in the short term, but air quality could suffer. Power plants will face fewer restrictions on emissions, which utilities argue will improve grid reliability and lower energy costs. Environmental groups and public health advocates warn that allowing higher-emitting plants to operate longer will degrade air quality and increase respiratory illnesses, particularly in low-income and communities of color. The changes extend beyond climate. The EPA is reconsidering water protections, narrowing the definition of wetlands that receive federal protection. It's revising wastewater discharge rules for power plants, raising concerns about mercury, arsenic, and selenium contaminating waterways. For the oil and gas industry, the EPA announced plans to reconsider wastewater regulations to what the agency calls unleash American energy. Supporters say these moves reduce regulatory burdens and stimulate economic growth. Critics contend they weaken environmental accountability and expose communities to pollution. Several key deadlines are approaching. Public comments on a new PFAS reporting rule are due December 29th, so if you work in manufacturing or chemicals and want your voice heard, act quickly. These regulatory changes are expected to face legal challenges from states and environmental groups, and court rulings could reshape EPA authority for years to come. For citizens wanting to engage, you can submit comments on proposed rules through the Federal Register. State governments are also mobilizing, with some considering their own environmental protections. As we head into the new year, watch for court decisions that will determine whether these rollbacks stick. The EPA is fundamentally rewriting the rules, and the outcomes will affect the air you breathe and the water your community depends on for decades. Thank you for tuning in. Please subscribe for more updates on environmental policy. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out quietplease dot ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Welcome to your weekly EPA update, listeners. This week, the Environmental Protection Agency dropped its biggest bombshell yet: a new "compliance first" enforcement approach announced in a December 5 memorandum from Acting Assistant Administrator Craig Pritzlaff. As Holland & Knight reports, it shifts focus from drawn-out investigations and penalties to quick fixes through outreach, training, and voluntary audits—rescinding Biden-era tools like extra monitoring and pausing supplemental environmental projects. This builds on 2025's deregulatory wave under Administrator Lee Zeldin. EPA proposed repealing greenhouse gas standards for power plants and vehicles, reconsidering the 2009 Endangerment Finding that labels CO2 a pollutant, and narrowing Waters of the U.S. rules to ease burdens on farmers and builders, per NZero and EPA news releases. They're also eyeing rollbacks on particulate matter standards and hazardous air pollutants to boost manufacturing, while power plants—responsible for 25% of U.S. emissions—could see relaxed wastewater rules. For American citizens, this means potentially lower energy costs and reliable power, but critics like environmental groups warn of dirtier air and water risking public health. Businesses cheer billions in saved compliance costs and fewer lawsuits, gaining clarity via a promised single enforcement guide. States get more lead with EPA technical support, avoiding overlaps, though some may challenge rollbacks in court. Internationally, looser GHG rules could strain climate pacts, signaling U.S. priorities on energy dominance. Pritzlaff emphasized "achieving timely compliance under the clearest interpretation of the law," using LEAPS factors—Law, Evidence, Analysis, Programmatic, and Stakeholder impacts—for decisions. Key deadline: Watch for the unified enforcement guidance soon; vehicle GHG repeal comments closed in fall, with rulings possibly by mid-2026. Citizens, engage by submitting feedback on proposals at epa.gov or joining state-led compliance workshops. Next, track power sector final rules and litigation. For more, visit epa.gov/newsreleases. If input's open, speak up—your voice shapes clean air for tomorrow. Thanks for tuning in, listeners—subscribe for updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

The big EPA headline this week is a major deadline extension for oil and gas methane rules. According to S&P Global Commodity Insights, the Environmental Protection Agency has finalized a rule pushing back key methane reporting requirements for upstream oil and gas producers by 180 days, moving the main compliance deadline out to November 2026. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the agency is providing “more realistic timelines” so “unrealistic regulations do not prevent America from unleashing energy dominance,” and EPA estimates companies will save about 750 million dollars in compliance costs over the next eleven years. For oil and gas operators, this buys time. Companies now have a longer runway to install monitoring equipment, sort out supply-chain issues, and build data systems for the new methane reports tied to the Clean Air Act’s performance standards for new and existing sources. Industry groups like the American Petroleum Institute praised the move, saying it supports innovation while still reducing methane, which is a powerful greenhouse gas. Environmental groups see it very differently. The Environmental Defense Fund and others argue that every extra year of unchecked methane emissions means more climate warming and more local air pollution. One EDF attorney warned that millions of Americans will be exposed to dangerous pollution for another year and a half, with higher risks for communities living near oil and gas fields. For listeners, the impact is a trade-off between short-term economic relief and long-term health and climate risks. If you live near drilling or processing sites, delays could mean more smog-forming pollution and associated respiratory problems. For businesses, especially in energy and services, the extension cuts near-term compliance pressure but adds uncertainty: legal challenges from environmental organizations and some states are already underway, and courts could still change the trajectory of these rules. State and local governments are caught in the middle. Energy-producing states may welcome the flexibility and potential job protection, while downwind or coastal states focused on climate resilience are preparing to push back in court and through their own stricter standards. Internationally, this kind of delay can complicate U.S. credibility in climate negotiations, since methane cuts are one of the fastest ways to slow near-term warming. If you want to engage, this final rule and related actions are typically open to legal and sometimes supplemental public comment. Listeners can track developments and submit feedback through the regulations section on epa.gov, contact state environmental agencies, or support local monitoring efforts that document air quality around oil and gas infrastructure. In the coming weeks, watch for court filings from states and advocacy groups, potential congressional hearings on the broader EPA deregulatory agenda, and any follow-up guidance EPA issues to clarify exactly how

The big story from the Environmental Protection Agency this week is its push to roll back cornerstone climate protections by advancing proposals to repeal greenhouse gas standards for vehicles and power plants, and to unwind the 2009 finding that greenhouse gases endanger public health and welfare. These moves signal a fundamental reorientation of the agency from aggressive climate regulation toward a deregulatory, industry-focused agenda under the current administration. According to multiple legal and policy analysts, EPA’s proposal to rescind the Endangerment Finding and vehicle emissions standards would, if finalized, strip away the legal backbone for federal limits on climate pollution from cars, trucks, and buses. Supporters inside and outside government argue that these rules have raised costs for manufacturers and consumers, while critics, including many public health and environmental experts, warn that weakening them could mean more air pollution, higher climate risks, and greater health burdens for vulnerable communities. At the same time, the agency is proposing to relax or roll back limits on greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel power plants, and to narrow the scope of which waters and wetlands receive federal protection. Industry groups and some state officials say these changes could simplify permitting, support grid reliability, and reduce compliance costs, especially for energy-intensive businesses. Environmental groups and many state and local leaders counter that the long-term costs of dirtier air and water, more climate-fueled disasters, and added health care expenses will fall heavily on American families, local governments, and taxpayers. EPA is also revisiting how it evaluates certain chemicals, including formaldehyde and some PFAS substances, shifting toward approaches that many in industry praise as more flexible and “risk based,” but that health advocates fear may underestimate cancer and toxicity risks. Businesses that manufacture or use these chemicals see potential savings and fewer reporting burdens, while workers, nearby communities, and school districts worry about exposure in homes, workplaces, and classrooms. Internationally, these moves could leave the United States out of step with trading partners that are tightening climate and chemical safety rules, affecting market access and global environmental diplomacy. For listeners, the practical impact shows up in everyday life: what comes out of tailpipes and smokestacks, what’s in drinking water, and how resilient local infrastructure is to floods, fires, and heat. State and local governments may respond by setting their own stricter standards, creating a patchwork that businesses must navigate, especially in transportation, power, and construction. Experts expect a wave of lawsuits from states, NGOs, and possibly industry players seeking clarity, which means many of these changes could be tied up in court for years. There are several ways listeners can e

This week, the Environmental Protection Agency made headlines by launching what it calls the biggest deregulatory action in U.S. history, with Administrator Lee Zeldin announcing 31 major rollbacks across environmental policy. These changes mark a dramatic shift from previous administrations, aiming to reduce compliance costs for businesses but raising concerns among public health and environmental advocates. The EPA is moving to repeal greenhouse gas emissions standards for both vehicles and power plants, arguing that these rules impose undue burdens on American industry. In August, the agency proposed eliminating the 2009 endangerment finding, which has been the legal foundation for regulating carbon emissions. If finalized, this would remove the basis for current vehicle emissions standards and could allow higher-emitting power plants to operate longer. The EPA also plans to narrow the definition of Waters of the United States, reducing federal protections for millions of acres of wetlands and streams. For businesses, these changes could mean lower compliance costs and more flexibility, especially in energy, manufacturing, and agriculture. But critics warn that the long-term impacts on air and water quality could affect public health, particularly for vulnerable communities. State and local governments may face new challenges as federal oversight diminishes, and some are expected to pursue their own stricter regulations. The EPA is also revising its approach to PFAS chemicals, proposing to extend compliance deadlines for drinking water standards and update reporting requirements to reduce industry burden. These changes come amid ongoing litigation and public comment periods, with key deadlines for feedback in December. Listeners who want to stay informed or weigh in can visit the EPA’s website for updates and opportunities to submit comments on proposed rules. The next few months will be critical as these policies move toward finalization. Thank you for tuning in. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta

Good morning and welcome to this week's environmental update. We're starting with breaking news from the EPA that's reshaping how America regulates its waters. On November 17th, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and the Army Corps of Engineers unveiled a proposed rule that fundamentally redefines what counts as waters of the United States under the Clean Water Act. This move follows a Supreme Court decision in Sackett and represents a significant shift in environmental policy under the Trump administration. The new definition aims to provide what officials call regulatory certainty for farmers and businesses while protecting water resources. The proposal opens a 45-day public comment period, giving listeners a chance to weigh in on this major change. Agricultural groups are backing the narrower definition, arguing it reduces burdens and provides clarity. Environmental advocates, however, warn it could leave millions of acres of wetlands and miles of streams unprotected going forward. But the water regulation story is just one piece of a much larger regulatory overhaul happening at the EPA right now. The agency is undertaking what it calls the biggest deregulatory action in US history. On August 1st, the EPA proposed repealing all greenhouse gas emission standards for light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles, along with rescinding the 2009 Endangerment Finding that declared greenhouse gases a threat to public health. This would unwind decades of emissions regulations established under both Democratic and Republican administrations. The power sector is also in the crosshairs. In June, the EPA proposed changes that could relax or repeal carbon pollution standards for power plants, which account for about 25 percent of US greenhouse gas emissions. Supporters argue these changes will improve grid reliability and lower energy costs. Opponents worry about increased emissions of mercury, arsenic, and selenium in waterways. Perhaps most immediately affecting public health, on November 24th, the EPA moved to abandon stricter limits on fine particulate matter pollution. The Biden administration's 2024 standard could have prevented up to 4,500 premature deaths and 800,000 asthma cases annually. The EPA is now asking courts to revert to weaker 2020 standards, effectively siding with industry challengers rather than defending its own rule. These changes will face significant legal challenges from environmental groups and states. The final impact depends on how courts interpret EPA authority under the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act. For listeners concerned about these developments, the EPA website provides details on all proposed rules, and public comment periods offer opportunities to make your voice heard. Thank you for tuning in to this environmental update. Be sure to subscribe for ongoing coverage of policy changes affecting your community and the environment. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out quietplease dot ai. For more http

The most significant headline out of the Environmental Protection Agency this week is their first quarterly public update on progress toward a permanent 100% solution for the Tijuana River sewage crisis. This landmark U.S.-Mexico initiative, announced by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, aims to finally end decades of coastal pollution and protect millions of Southern Californians from cross-border sewage. Zeldin assured the public, “Our mission will not be accomplished until we reach the 100% solution. Safeguarding public health and environmental integrity stands as EPA's foremost responsibility, and every American deserves confidence in the safety of the air they inhale and the recreational areas they enjoy.” The public update reflects historic progress: following a July 2025 Memorandum of Understanding, the EPA and International Boundary and Water Commission delivered a ten-million-gallon-per-day expansion of the San Diego wastewater treatment plant in just 100 days—well ahead of schedule. More construction and upgrades are slated for 2026, and both governments are finalizing a new U.S.-Mexico treaty by the end of this year, with a goal to complete all “Minute 328” projects by December 2027. According to USIBWC Commissioner Chad McIntosh, “We are making real progress…and we will continue to monitor Mexico’s progress to make sure they also urgently complete the work they agreed to do.” This binational approach is affecting citizens in real ways—less beach contamination means safer recreation, improved local economies, and healthier communities in the San Diego-Tijuana region. State agencies and city leaders see relief from chronic emergency closures and costly cleanups. For businesses from tourism to fisheries, certainty and clean water open new opportunities. The collaboration with Mexico stands out as a rare international win in cross-border environmental management. Zooming out, the EPA under Administrator Zeldin and the Trump Administration has also unleashed sweeping policy changes. In the spirit of regulatory relief, the agency is actively reconsidering the scientific foundation behind regulating greenhouse gas emissions—specifically the 2009 “Endangerment Finding,” which serves as the legal basis for U.S. climate policy. The EPA is proposing to roll back carbon standards for power plants and vehicles, citing a push for energy reliability and economic growth. These moves, however, have alarmed many scientists and environmental groups who warn that such rollbacks could lead to higher emissions and increased public health risks, especially for vulnerable communities. Recent actions also include a proposed narrowing of the federal definition of “Waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act. Proponents like the American Farm Bureau Federation say this gives farmers and landowners much-needed clarity and reduces bureaucratic burdens. Critics caution it could leave millions of acres of wetlands unprotected. For businesses, streamlined

This week’s headline from Washington: The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers unveiled a major proposed rule to narrow the definition of “Waters of the United States”—an update that could dramatically reshape U.S. water protections and land use. Under Administrator Lee Zeldin, the EPA says these changes are aimed at simplifying regulations for landowners, providing regulatory clarity, and boosting economic opportunity, especially for agriculture and development interests. However, environmental advocates warn that excluding wetlands without visible surface water could strip federal protections from more than half of America’s wetlands, putting critical habitats and drinking water sources at risk. Alongside the WOTUS proposal, Zeldin’s EPA continued its push to roll back climate-focused regulations, setting the stage for what he called the “greatest day of deregulation in U.S. history.” The agency is moving to rescind the Endangerment Finding—the cornerstone legal basis for regulating greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act. If that proposal is finalized, it would also repeal emission standards for vehicles and fossil fuel power plants. Zeldin stated, “We’re putting American businesses and families first, ending rules that kill jobs and raise energy prices.” Advocates of the rollback argue these moves will reduce compliance costs, increase domestic manufacturing and energy production, and improve grid reliability. Critics, however, warn that air quality and public health could suffer, with experts noting the power sector still accounts for about 25 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. For American citizens, these changes could mean fewer federal protections for clean water and higher risks from pollutants like mercury and arsenic in local waterways. Public health impacts might follow as emission controls are loosened. Businesses, especially in energy and construction, anticipate reduced regulatory burdens and potential cost savings, while environmental groups, some states, and local governments are preparing legal challenges. The EPA’s deregulatory agenda also cuts across international climate commitments, raising questions among global partners about the strength of the United States’ environmental leadership. Budget-wise, the EPA has signaled plans to redirect spending toward deregulation and streamlining enforcement, with new initiatives focused on boosting domestic energy output. On the program front, August saw the announcement of revised wastewater discharge rules aiming at reliability and production but raising concerns about possible pollutant spikes. Coalitions are forming fast: Some states and environmental organizations are partnering to challenge these regulatory rollbacks in court, while several industry groups and agricultural associations are voicing strong support for the new direction. According to Clean Water Action, the narrowing of WOTUS means “millions of acres of wetlands and countless mi

EPA made headlines this week as Administrator Lee Zeldin confirmed the reinstatement of stricter hazardous air pollutant standards for America’s coke manufacturing sector. After a brief extension announced in July that drew heavy criticism from environmental groups, the EPA reversed course and is now requiring coke plants to comply with the tougher emissions limits—including mercury monitoring—by July 2025. Zeldin declared, “We are restoring accountability for industries, protecting the health of our communities, and supporting American steel manufacturing with cleaner, better policies.” This impacts thousands of workers and their neighborhoods, particularly those living near steel plants, who have long reported concerns over air and water quality. That’s just one of several waves of major EPA policy changes launched under the Trump administration. Earlier this summer, the EPA issued proposals to roll back greenhouse gas emissions standards for fossil fuel-fired power plants and reconsider the Endangerment Finding—the legislative bedrock that enabled the EPA to regulate greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act. Industry groups argue these moves will save billions in compliance costs and keep electricity affordable, while critics fear they could increase pollution and undermine climate efforts. According to NZero, the power sector makes up about a quarter of US greenhouse gas emissions—so these changes will have ripple effects for American businesses, state governments, and ordinary citizens. Environmental groups and some states are gearing up for court challenges, with decisions likely to shape future regulation. On vehicle emissions, EPA’s long-term goals—like 49 miles per gallon fuel efficiency by 2026—could be scaled back as the agency questions the scientific basis of previous standards. This could lower costs for automotive manufacturers, but may affect air quality and the nation’s climate commitments. For local governments, these federal shifts mean reevaluating infrastructure and air monitoring investments, while international partners watch closely to see if US leadership on climate remains steady. Meanwhile, the EPA continues revising chemical reporting programs. Facilities are now required to track and report activities involving sodium perfluorohexanesulfonate, a PFAS chemical, beginning in 2026, with reports due by July 2027. The agency says this action will strengthen accountability, but manufacturers are calling for streamlined requirements. Public health advocates emphasize that tracking toxic chemicals is critical for protecting vulnerable groups. Texas scored a win this week as the EPA granted it primary authority over Class VI wells used for carbon storage. Supporters say this streamlines carbon capture projects and could spark economic development, but some experts warn about the need for robust oversight to prevent water contamination. For listeners wanting to weigh in, EPA has opened public comment periods on several new

Big news out of Washington this week: The Environmental Protection Agency has unveiled sweeping changes to its chemical reporting, emissions oversight, and enforcement priorities, continuing what Administrator Lee Zeldin is calling “the most consequential day of deregulation in U.S. history.” At the heart of the week’s headlines is a proposed rule to significantly weaken the reporting requirements for PFAS—those “forever chemicals” linked to health concerns like cancer and thyroid disease. The new plan carves out six major exemptions, including finished goods imports and de minimis uses, which many businesses say will cut red tape but health advocates warn could make it harder for communities to identify, address, and respond to contamination. For both manufacturers and article importers, the EPA’s proposal means fewer reporting obligations and a shorter submission window—just three months after the rule takes effect. The EPA says these changes make the process “more practical and implementable,” aiming to balance regulatory burden with its ability to track serious chemical risks. But labor and health groups, like those cited by The New Lede, stress that rolling back requirements threatens vulnerable workers and communities, especially in areas already facing legacy chemical pollution. Alongside that, the EPA is doubling down on its deregulatory momentum with proposals to repeal elements of the greenhouse gas emissions standards for fossil fuel-fired power plants and even reconsider foundational legal findings. By aiming to rescind the so-called Endangerment Finding that justified CO2 regulation, the EPA is setting up a major legal battle over whether greenhouse gases should be policed at the federal level. Utility companies and some state regulators support the move, pointing to possible lower energy costs and improved grid reliability. Yet environmental organizations and public health advocates fear this could lock in higher emissions, poor air quality, and longer-term health risks. For state and local governments, the rule changes cut both ways. Texas was just granted primacy to oversee underground water protection, marking a shift in EPA-state partnerships and granting more autonomy, but also sparking debate about regulatory consistency nationwide. Internationally, these moves could affect U.S. standing in climate negotiations, especially if targets for reducing vehicle emissions and power plant pollution slow down. The transportation sector is still digesting EPA’s challenge to stricter fuel standards, prompting automakers to rethink future fleets and timelines for compliance. Budget implications abound—for businesses, compliance costs could drop by billions, freeing up resources for investment. For citizens, the risks and benefits depend on where you live and what industries operate nearby. Many environmental rollbacks are now open for public comment—listeners can join the debate by submitting feedback on regulations.gov in the next 45

The top headline from the Environmental Protection Agency this week: The EPA, under Administrator Lee Zeldin, has authorized the use of the pesticide cyclobutrifluram, its first so-called “forever chemical” or PFAS pesticide, for use on golf courses, cotton, soybeans, and lettuce. This controversial decision landed just days after President Trump’s administration pushed its fifth such PFAS-related proposal, highlighting a sharp shift in U.S. chemical regulation. According to Nathan Donley at the Center for Biological Diversity, “Trump’s chemical industry cronies at the EPA are unleashing a new forever chemical to protect golf courses and poison our country while flagrantly breaking the president’s promise to make America healthy again.” This move isn’t happening in a vacuum. Even as much of the federal government faces a historic shutdown—leading to food stamp delays, unpaid federal workers, and sweeping disruptions—the EPA’s pesticide office has remained in full swing. Agency officials argue they’re prioritizing continuity for “critical regulatory activities.” But public health groups are alarmed, especially since PFAS chemicals are known for their environmental persistence and links to cancer, hormone disruption, and immune harm. Meanwhile, an even bigger change is roiling the EPA landscape: Administrator Zeldin has announced what’s being called the “biggest deregulatory action in US history.” In recent weeks, the agency has advanced proposals to undo key Obama- and Biden-era climate rules, including plans to repeal the landmark Endangerment Finding, which underpinned climate action by recognizing greenhouse gases as dangerous to human health. This would cascade into scrapping car and truck emission standards and scaling back regulations on fossil fuel power plants. The American Action Forum notes these changes have sparked rare bipartisan concern, with lawmakers from both parties warning that rolling back greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting and regulation could undermine both environmental progress and transparency for businesses. Industry groups and some state regulators back the EPA’s deregulatory agenda, saying looser standards lower energy and manufacturing costs and support grid reliability. For example, the agency’s relaxing of power plant emission rules is framed by advocates as a way to “support domestic energy production.” But environmental organizations and public health experts counter that repealing these protections could lead to increases in air and water pollution. The EPA’s own data show the power sector and transportation are responsible for over half of America’s GHG emissions, underscoring the stakes for climate and health. States and cities are scrambling to adapt; some are pursuing their own stricter standards, but many lack resources or authority. Internationally, moves like repealing the Endangerment Finding risk undermining global climate efforts and U.S. credibility at upcoming climate summits. If you’re concerned abou

Thanks for tuning in. The biggest headline from the Environmental Protection Agency this week is the agency’s dramatic move to roll back cornerstone climate protections, kicking off what Administrator Lee Zeldin is calling the most consequential wave of deregulation in U.S. history. Just days ago, Zeldin announced that the EPA is launching 31 deregulatory actions in a single sweep—changes that could reshape everything from air quality standards to vehicle emission rules. At the center of the news: The EPA’s formal proposal to repeal Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for fossil fuel power plants and a companion rule aiming to overturn the landmark 2009 Endangerment Finding, which for over a decade has given EPA the authority to regulate greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act. If finalized, this would not only eliminate strict emissions requirements for new and existing power plants but also slash all greenhouse gas limits on light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles. According to an August announcement in the Federal Register, this could effectively end mandatory climate-driven regulation for nearly all major emission sources in the United States. These proposed changes stem from President Trump’s Executive Order “Unleashing American Energy,” which directs agencies to identify and remove rules that burden domestic energy producers. The administration’s position argues that current greenhouse gas regulations represent federal government overreach and stifle American innovation. Administrator Zeldin stated, “We’re focused on empowering businesses, protecting jobs, and unleashing the full potential of American energy while maintaining sensible environmental protections.” But this has set off a fierce national debate. Senators Whitehouse and Cramer have urged the EPA to withdraw its proposed cancellation of the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, warning that halting emissions data collection will “blindfold Congress and the public” as to real climate risks. Environmental groups and scientific experts warn that weakening these protections could reverse progress on climate change and increase pollution, potentially increasing health risks, especially for vulnerable communities. According to Nature, some EPA scientists are openly worried that the reorganization of the agency—which now moves scientific staff out of dedicated research offices—could reduce scientific capacity and erode the evidentiary basis for future decision-making. For businesses, especially in the energy and automotive sectors, the deregulation offers a reprieve from compliance costs and reporting requirements. Many industry leaders are applauding the moves as necessary to keep American manufacturers competitive globally. State and local governments, on the other hand, are scrambling to understand the long-term implications for their own air quality programs, as federal standards continue to be the baseline for much state-level regulation. Internationally, these decisions may strai

Welcome back to the Quiet Please podcast, bringing you today’s biggest environmental news with real-world impact. The spotlight this week is on a sweeping move from the Environmental Protection Agency: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has unveiled a proposal to end the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, a regulatory overhaul touted as one of the largest deregulatory actions in agency history. The move, announced from Washington, is expected to save businesses up to 2.4 billion dollars in compliance costs. Administrator Zeldin argues that the current greenhouse gas reporting requirements “do nothing to improve air quality” and instead bog businesses down in unnecessary bureaucracy. This proposal would lift reporting obligations from over 8,000 facilities and suppliers nationwide, except for certain petroleum and natural gas systems that will remain subject to the methane waste emissions charge beginning in 2034. There’s another major shift in the pipeline. The EPA is advancing the repeal of pivotal greenhouse gas emission standards for fossil fuel power plants and vehicles. The agency has started reconsidering the 2009 Endangerment Finding—the legal foundation that established greenhouse gases as a public health threat. If rescinded, the legal basis for everything from fuel efficiency standards to power plant pollution limits could vanish overnight. Critics, like environmental groups and many state governments, warn that this will cripple the nation’s fight against climate change. They point out that transportation is responsible for 29 percent of US greenhouse gas emissions, and historic fuel efficiency standards have kept both emissions and consumer costs in check. Meanwhile, the EPA just allocated hydrofluorocarbon allowances for 2026, continuing the phase-down of these potent greenhouse gases under the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act. Even as other climate rules are reconsidered, this HFC phasedown sticks to the international timeline set by the Kigali Amendment, keeping the US mostly in step with global commitments. How do these changes ripple out? For American citizens, especially those in communities near industrial hubs or fossil fuel plants, public health protections could weaken, leaving air quality oversight to state officials or even industry self-reporting—a method recently criticized by reporting from ProPublica for missing major emissions violations. For businesses, costs will drop for compliance and reporting, but companies dedicated to clean energy may now face an uneven playing field. State and local governments may need to fill regulatory gaps, potentially driving up their own environmental monitoring expenses. Internationally, allies eyeing robust US leadership on climate could see these rollbacks as America stepping back from its global commitments. Industry advocates argue these steps will unleash economic growth and energy development. Environmental groups, public health experts, and many economists warn of long-ter

The biggest news from the Environmental Protection Agency this week is its sweeping move to rescind the Obama-era Endangerment Finding, the foundational legal basis that allowed the EPA to regulate greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide as threats to public health. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin called it “the most significant deregulatory action in agency history,” marking a decisive turn in U.S. climate policy—one with immediate and long-term effects for industries, states, and every American household. This proposed repeal, announced August 1 and now open for public comment, would eliminate greenhouse gas emission standards for nearly all vehicles and fossil fuel power plants. The Endangerment Finding, established in 2009, enabled tougher standards for cars and power plants and aimed to cut emissions in sectors that together account for over half of U.S. greenhouse emissions according to agency data. Supporters, such as the current Department of Energy leadership, suggest regulations based on outdated science should be re-examined, arguing this will ease compliance for manufacturing and energy and potentially lower prices for businesses and consumers. However, environmental groups and many public health experts warn that undoing the rule could severely weaken America’s ability to combat climate change and safeguard air quality. For Americans, this could affect air pollution levels and public health outcomes, especially in urban and industrial regions. The rollback may slow the transition to cleaner vehicles, with industry advocates noting fuel efficiency rules helped raise average fleet mileage from 23.4 to nearly 40 miles per gallon since 2010. Businesses in fossil fuel production and energy foresee fewer regulatory obstacles, though automakers worry about sinking investments in newer, cleaner technologies. State and local governments—especially those in California and the Northeast—are bracing for legal fights, potentially revisiting their own rules or pursuing independent emission standards. The EPA also released a new Residential Lead Directive, setting fresh national soil benchmarks and speeding up Superfund site cleanups. This means faster remediation for hazardous waste communities, with the EPA promising streamlined processes and stronger oversight. Looking ahead, Administrator Zeldin emphasized that, “We are opening the door for innovation and domestic energy ambitions, letting American industry lead once again.” The Department of Energy’s new report questioning the link between greenhouse gases and climate change is open for public comment until August 31, offering a rare chance for citizens, scientists, and businesses to weigh in on the heart of EPA’s authority. Listeners, you can engage directly by submitting feedback through the EPA’s online portal—your perspectives will help shape these major policy shifts. Public hearings are slated for late September and final decisions could arrive before the end of the year. For more, visit