The bill contends that the proposed EPA rule lacks proper authorization under the Clean Air Act and raises issues regarding the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of the pollution reduction technologies involved, such as carbon capture. By prohibiting the EPA from enforcing this rule, the bill seeks to maintain the operational status of certain power plants and preserve existing energy practices while questioning the regulatory authority granted to the EPA.
Summary
House Bill 4038, also known as the Protect Our Power Plants Act (POPP Act), aims to prohibit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from finalizing, implementing, or enforcing a proposed rule concerning new source performance standards and emissions guidelines for greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel-fired electric generating units. The legislation arises in response to concerns over the implications of a specific EPA rule that proponents argue could fundamentally alter the dynamics of the electricity sector, impacting both economic and political spheres significantly.
Contention
Notably, the introduction of HB4038 has incited debate regarding regulatory authority and environmental policy. Supporters claim that the bill protects vital energy infrastructure and prevents overreach by the federal government, maintaining energy independence and stability. On the other hand, opponents argue that it hinders progress toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing climate change effectively, highlighting that inadequate regulation could lead to long-term environmental consequences.
To strengthen the reliability of the United States' power grids by preventing the premature retirement of essential electric generating units by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and for other purposes.
Water Quality Certification and Energy Project Improvement Act of 2023 TAPP American Resources Act Transparency, Accountability, Permitting, and Production of American Resources Act Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2023
Recognizing that the climate crisis disproportionately affects the health, economic opportunity, and fundamental rights of children, expressing the sense of Congress that leadership by the United States is still urgently needed to address the climate crisis, and acknowledging the need of the United States to develop a national, comprehensive, science-based, and just climate recovery plan to phase out fossil fuel emissions, protect and enhance natural carbon sequestration, and put the United States on a path toward stabilizing the climate system.