Congressman Garamendi on New EPA Emissions Standard: This Rule Will Save American Lives

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman John Garamendi (D-Walnut Creek, CA), a member of the House Natural Resources Committee, today praised the Environmental Protection Agency for establishing a national standard for harmful power plant emissions. The decision is consistent with the EPA’s authority established by the 1980 Clean Air Act.

Congressman Garamendi issued the following statement:

"The pollutants emitted by power plants endanger the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. I’m glad President Obama and the EPA have established a national standard for emissions.

"Air pollution does not respect state lines. When some jurisdictions permit virtually no regulation of power plant emissions, they become bad neighbors, exposing the rest of us to dangerous and sometimes lethal ailments, including cancer and childhood asthma. Thousands of premature deaths will be averted by this policy.

"Where personal greed threatens the health of millions of Americans, it is appropriate for federal agencies to step in. By requiring power plants to reduce 187 known toxic air pollutants, including mercury, arsenic, and chromium, the EPA is telling power companies and their powerful allies to clean up their act to clean up our air. This is a good policy for every American who values their health and the health of their loved ones."