Supreme Court Sees EPA and "Good Neighbors" Clearing the Air

May 21, 2014- A recent Supreme Court decision upholds an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulation which required some states to reduce pollution that may contribute to unhealthy air across state lines.

Reuters.com, in their post, "In win for Obama, top court revives cross-state air pollution rule," quotes Ruth Bader Ginsburg, writing for the majority, as calling the rule a "permissible, workable, and equitable interpretation" of the 'good neighbor' provision of the federal Clean Air Act."

The Supreme Court said the EPA acted reasonably in requiring "upwind" states to reduce coal-fired power plant emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, compounds which can lead to soot and smog.

The vote was 6-2. Justices Scalia and Thomas dissented (Justice Alito had recused himself). The decision overturned a U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit decision that threw out the regulation in 2012.

Reuters, quotied EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy from her statement, "Today's Supreme Court decision is a resounding victory for public health and a key component of EPA's efforts to make sure all Americans have clean air to breathe."

Read the full Reuters.com post here.

Carnow Conibear and Associates is a demonstrated leader in the occupational and environmental health professions since 1975. To find out more, click here or call us at (800) 860-4486.