WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Wednesday proposed repealing rules that limit greenhouse gas emissions from coal and natural gas-fueled power plants in the United States [1][2][3]. This move, announced by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, aims to remove what the agency describes as billions of dollars in costs for the energy industry [1][3].

The proposal seeks to overturn two key regulations implemented during the Biden administration. The first is the 2024 Carbon Pollution Standards, which set limits on greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. The second involves changes to the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards, which require power plants to reduce emissions of mercury and other toxic pollutants [2][3].

"Since President Trump was sworn in, we have been working to end this agency's war on so much of our U.S. domestic energy supply," Zeldin stated during a ceremony at EPA headquarters [2]. The rollbacks are intended to fulfill President Trump's pledge to "unleash American energy" and reduce power costs for consumers and businesses [1][3].

However, the proposed changes have raised concerns among environmental advocates. The existing regulations were designed to address climate change and improve air quality, particularly in low-income areas and communities of color that are often disproportionately affected by industrial pollution [3].

Critics argue that weakening these rules could have significant health implications. The mercury and toxic pollutant regulations, in particular, were implemented to protect brain development in young children and reduce the risk of heart attacks and other health problems in adults [1][3].

The EPA's proposal marks a significant shift in U.S. environmental policy, potentially impacting both domestic energy production and global efforts to combat climate change. As the proposal moves through the regulatory process, it is likely to face scrutiny from environmental groups, health advocates, and states committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions [2][3].