The Trump administration has called on companies to reach out to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) via email to seek exemptions from nine clean-air regulations by March 31. These regulations include mercury limits for power plants and restrictions on hazardous air pollutants in plastic production. This move, utilizing a rarely used measure, is part of the administration’s efforts to reduce regulatory burdens for businesses.
The EPA stated that this exemption offer aligns with President Trump’s objective of cutting red tape in energy production. This announcement comes shortly after the agency revealed plans to roll back numerous environmental regulations implemented during the Biden administration. President Trump had declared a national energy emergency on his first day in office and instructed federal agencies to utilize emergency authorities to expedite energy development and production.
To request an exemption, companies are instructed to email the EPA, specifying the emissions standards they seek to bypass, the duration of the exemption sought, and the rationale for the request, which may include citing technological limitations or national security concerns. The agency mentioned that exemptions could potentially be extended for up to two years.
While the use of presidential exemptions is infrequent and typically involves a public process, the Trump administration has been known for taking significant actions to reverse previous regulations. These actions include expediting energy infrastructure projects requiring federal wetlands permits and invoking emergency powers to enhance domestic production of critical minerals to reduce dependence on China.
The EPA rules eligible for exemptions cover a range of industries, such as rubber tire production, smelters, and integrated steel and iron manufacturing facilities. Environmental Defense Fund’s general counsel, Vickie Patton, criticized the administration’s move, claiming it is an attempt to circumvent established pollution limits safeguarding the health of millions of Americans.
