A federal appeals court in Washington, D.C., today ruled that the US EPA’s 2010 rule limiting emissions of sulfur dioxide was valid. The rule had been challenged by a trade group representing, among other companies, ConocoPhillips (NYSE: COP), Exxon Mobil Corp. (NYSE: XOM), and General Electric Co. (NYSE: GE) and the states of North Dakota and Texas.
The rule restricts sulfur dioxide emissions from electricity generating plants to 75 parts per billion over the course of one hour. The previous limit, adopted in 1970, had been 140 parts per billion over a 24-hour period.
In a similar case in Oklahoma, the federal appeals court ruled against the US EPA, granting the state a stay pending a review of the EPA’s sulfur dioxide rule at four electricity generating plants.
A more far-reaching environmental case related to the EPA’s Cross-State Air Pollution Rule is expected soon. That rule imposes restrictions on coal-fired power generation that affects air quality in neighboring states.
Paul Ausick
Get Ready To Retire (Sponsored)
Start by taking a quick retirement quiz from SmartAsset that will match you with up to 3 financial advisors that serve your area and beyond in 5 minutes, or less.
Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests.
Here’s how it works:
1. Answer SmartAsset advisor match quiz
2. Review your pre-screened matches at your leisure. Check out the advisors’ profiles.
3. Speak with advisors at no cost to you. Have an introductory call on the phone or introduction in person and choose whom to work with in the future
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.