Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) News

# EPA Under New Direction: What You Need to KnowWelcome 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.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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 industries affected by these changes or care about environmental policy, now is the time to engage with the regulatory process. Visit the EPA's website to learn more about upcoming rulemakings and public comment opportunities.Thank you for tuning in to this environmental policy briefing. Please subscribe for more updates on how government decisions impact your life and business. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out quietplease dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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 companies should prepare for the 2026 deadline.Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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 engage right now. When EPA publishes these proposals, it must take public comment, and anyone can submit views online, from small business owners worried about compliance costs to parents concerned about asthma and cancer risks in their communities. Local hearings, state rulemakings, and city climate and water planning processes are also chances to speak up, ask hard questions, and push for protections or flexibility that fit local needs.In the weeks ahead, key moments to watch include public comment deadlines on the greenhouse gas rollbacks, vehicle standards, and major chemical risk evaluations, along with any court orders that pause or overturn agency actions. For more information, listeners can visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s official website, state environmental agency pages, and reputable nonpartisan policy or health organizations that track air, water, and climate rules. Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe for more updates on how environmental decisions in Washington shape daily life in your community. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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 permitting and relaxed reporting mean immediate cost savings, particularly in energy-intensive sectors. State and local governments may see renewed authority over key resources—but also bear more responsibility for water and air quality. On the international stage, the rapid progress along the U.S.-Mexico border signals what can happen when cross-border partnerships are made a top priority.Looking ahead, the next big milestone will be the signing of the new U.S.-Mexico “Minute” agreement by the end of 2025. Lawsuits and regulatory challenges are likely in the months to come, particularly on emissions rollbacks and clean water rules. Citizens can track EPA public updates and comment during open federal rulemaking periods at epa.gov. If you have a stake or a story—especially along the border—EPA forums and town halls welcome your voice.Thanks for tuning in. Make sure to subscribe for more essential updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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 miles of streams might lose vital protection.”The public can comment on both the WOTUS redefinition and rescinding of the Endangerment Finding until late December, with final rules and potential court decisions expected in early 2026. Upcoming deadlines and hearings are key events to watch. If you want to make your voice heard, visit the EPA’s website for details on submitting comments or attending virtual hearings.Thanks for tuning in. Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an update on what’s shaping the future of America’s air, water, and climate policy. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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 policy proposals, including greenhouse gas and PFAS reporting rules. If you’re concerned about how these changes could affect your health, environment, or business, now’s the time to make your voice heard. Check out EPA.gov for resources, comment portals, and further details on proposed rulemaking.As these regulatory battles unfold, expect major updates in courtrooms, at state capitols, and across American industries in the coming months. We’ll keep tracking EPA’s next moves and how they’re shaping our air, water, and future. Thank you for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe!This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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 days for chemical rules, and watching for court rulings and legislative hearings that may reshape what gets implemented.Next up: eyes on congressional negotiations over stalled lead pipe replacement funds, plus ongoing lawsuits that could overturn or reinforce the new EPA agenda. For those wanting to stay informed or get involved, check out the EPA’s website and keep tabs on the Federal Register for timelines and comment deadlines. If you care about how these decisions shape your air, water, and economic future, now is the time to make your voice heard.Thanks for tuning in—subscribe for more timely environmental updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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 about these changes, the EPA is inviting public comment on several proposals, including the repeal of greenhouse gas standards for vehicles and the latest science on PFAS chemicals in pesticides. Submit your feedback through the EPA’s official regulations portal—your voice can shape these major decisions. Upcoming deadlines include a 30-day window for comments on vehicle emission rules, closing in early December.For the latest updates or to get involved, visit the EPA’s news center or your state environmental agency. Stay tuned: the agency is expected to unveil further deregulation plans affecting water protections and hazardous chemical disclosures in the weeks ahead. Thanks for joining us. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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 strain U.S. credibility in climate negotiations and influence other countries’ approaches to emissions standards.Looking ahead, all of these proposals are now open for public comment. Deadlines for major rules are in mid-December, and the EPA has indicated public hearings will be held virtually and in-person. If you have views on the agency’s plans—whether as a private citizen, business owner, or public official—now is the moment to make your voice heard.For more information or to weigh in on pending regulations, visit the EPA’s official website at epa.gov. Stay tuned for further updates as the legal battles and policy debates unfold, shaping the future of environmental protection in America.Thanks for joining us. Don’t forget to subscribe for ongoing EPA and climate news. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI