Walorski said the bill helps to reign in the “overreaching” Environment Protection Agency regulations and creates a state-based program with standards for coal ash that she feels will protect jobs, health, and the environment.
Coal combustion residuals, also called coal ash, are materials produced when coal is burned to generate electricity. Coal ash is used in wallboard, roofing materials, concrete, cement, and other products used in highway and building construction. The purpose of the bill is to designate states as the primary regulator of coal ash, instead of the EPA, and set minimal federal standards. States will be required to certify compliance with specific federal standards, ensuring proper environmental protections are met.
