Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito has announced her intention to introduce a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution of disapproval to overturn the emissions rules targeting existing coal plants and new gas plants, following the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) move to force the closure of American power plants.

Capito criticized President Biden's environmental agenda, stating, "With the latest iteration of the illegal Clean Power Plan 2.0 announced today, President Biden has inexplicably doubled down on his plans to shut down the backbone of America’s electric grid through unachievable regulatory mandates." She highlighted the potential negative impact on American households and employers, emphasizing the threat to access affordable and reliable energy.

The EPA's regulations, as outlined by EPA Administrator Michael Regan, impose burdensome emissions requirements on both existing coal-fired power plants and newly constructed gas-fired power plants. Capito's resolution aims to protect energy workers and millions of Americans against what she perceives as executive overreach.

Capito's consistent opposition to the EPA's Clean Power Plan 2.0 has been demonstrated through various actions, including sending letters to EPA Administrator Michael Regan and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) outlining concerns and urging improvements to the proposed plan. Additionally, she has led efforts to challenge the plan through legislation and previous resolutions.

In the past, Capito successfully challenged the Obama administration's Clean Power Plan with Congressional Review Act resolutions of disapproval. Despite facing a veto from President Obama, Capito's efforts in 2015, alongside Senate Leader Mitch McConnell, highlight her commitment to protecting American power plants from what she perceives as harmful regulations.

The Senator's latest move to introduce a resolution to overturn the EPA's regulations signals her ongoing dedication to opposing what she views as detrimental policies impacting the American energy sector.