Statement of Fred Krupp, President, Environmental Defense Fund, June 25,2021
(WASHINGTON) With bipartisan support, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to restore EPA rules limiting oil and gas methane pollution from new wells, processing plants and other facilities across the country. The measure, which passed the Senate in April, now moves on to the President’s desk.
“Congress just delivered its first bipartisan win for the climate. Controlling methane is a winning proposition for all sides because it cuts pollution and reduces waste. This vote sends a clear message to EPA that Congress expects stronger limits on oil and gas methane pollution to assure important climate and clean air protections.”
Once signed, the Congressional Review Act resolution (H.J.Res.34 / S.J.Res.14) will immediately reinstate provisions rescinded late last year by the previous administration and clear the way for additional safeguards promised by the White House in January for hundreds of thousands of new and existing wells. Facilities, built before 2015, are responsible for an overwhelming majority of industry’s methane pollution but aren’t subject to federal controls.
Full blog post HERE