Federal Court Upholds US EPA Air-quality Rule

Energy

Published: July 20, 2012 2:19 pm

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

Are You Still Paying With a Debit Card?

The average American spends $17,274 on debit cards a year, and it’s a HUGE mistake. First, debit cards don’t have the same fraud protections as credit cards. Once your money is gone, it’s gone. But more importantly you can actually get something back from this spending every time you swipe.

Issuers are handing out wild bonuses right now. With some you can earn up to 5% back on every purchase. That’s like getting a 5% discount on everything you buy!

Our top pick is kind of hard to imagine. Not only does it pay up to 5% back, it also includes a $200 cash back reward in the first six months, a 0% intro APR, and…. $0 annual fee. It’s quite literally free money for any one that uses a card regularly. Click here to learn more!

Flywheel Publishing has partnered with CardRatings to provide coverage of credit card products. Flywheel Publishing and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.