McClellan Applauds EPA’s Final Air Toxics Rule
Rule Follows Letter Led by McClellan and Signed by 50+ Members of Congress
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) issued the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) final rule:
“The Biden-Harris Administration has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to combating climate change, advancing environmental justice, and protecting vulnerable populations disproportionately impacted by long-standing injustices. The EPA’s final MATS Rule is another crucial step in those efforts and will have profound impacts on historically marginalized and underrepresented communities that bear the brunt of environmental degradation.
“Coal- and oil-fired power plants emit harmful pollution, including mercury and other air pollutants that contribute to various adverse health impacts. This strong MATS final rule will help us achieve better health outcomes by reducing toxic power plant emissions.
“Last July, I led over 50 House Democrats in urging EPA to take robust, decisive action on mercury and other air toxics to protect environmental justice communities nationwide. I am thrilled EPA heard our call and finalized strong standards. I commend Administrator Regan and the Biden-Harris Administration for their ongoing efforts to reduce harmful emissions and promote better health outcomes. I look forward to our continued collaboration as we work to advance environmental justice and protect the American people.”
Background: The EPA’s Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) rule requires power plants to curb hazardous air pollution. MATS was initially established in 2012, but EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler severely undermined the rule during the Trump Administration. The Biden-Harris Administration reversed those decisions while taking additional steps to strengthen air pollution regulations.
In July 2023, McClellan led over 50 House Democrats in calling on EPA Administrator Michael Regan to swiftly finalize a protective MATS rule to limit harmful air pollution and achieve better health outcomes for vulnerable Americans.