The President has announced a two-year exemption for certain coal-fired electric utility steam generating units from complying with a recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule. The rule, known as the National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants, requires emissions-control technologies that are not yet commercially viable, according to the President. The effective date of the rule was July 8, 2024, and compliance was initially set for July 8, 2027.
The EPA's rule aimed to amend the existing Mercury and Air Toxics Standards to make them more stringent. The President claims that the current compliance timeline imposes significant burdens on coal-fired power plants, which could lead to the shutdown of many facilities. This, in turn, could negatively impact the nation's coal sector, economy, energy security, and national security.
Citing section 112(i)(4) of the Clean Air Act, President Trump has proclaimed a two-year exemption. "The technology to implement the Rule is not available," stated the President, arguing its absence is a barrier to compliance. He emphasized, "It is in the national security interests of the United States to issue this Exemption."
The exemption extends the compliance deadline to July 8, 2029, allowing affected sources to continue operating under the previous standards. "Forcing energy producers to comply with unattainable emissions controls jeopardizes this mission," the President asserted regarding energy security.
President Trump signed the proclamation on April 8, 2025.
