The EPA has now approved Oklahoma to be the first state to take over permitting and enforcement of coal ash sites. The Trump administration says states and local officials know how to deal with local problems.
One administration proposal would give states authority over emissions from coal-fired power plants. [Think West Virginia]. Another would give states the responsibility to protect wetlands. [Think Florida].
Some states would do a good job. California and Vermont come to mind. Some states would do an ok job. Pennsylvania and Illinois come to mind. Some states will do absolutely nothing. Oklahoma and Alabama come to mind.
Local control sounds good until you remember who has the power in so many localities and states. Disasters are about to unfold.
I sometimes wonder when I see the crowds cheering Trump–do they have any idea what is happening in this country?
If you want to read more, see Ellen Knickmeyer, “EPA transfers burden to states,” Morning Call, (May 23, 2019), p 17.
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