The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a Congressional Review Act Resolution of Disapproval aimed at repealing an air pollution rule. This resolution, already approved by the Senate, awaits the President's decision to become law. If enacted, it would mark a significant weakening of the Clean Air Act.
The resolution targets a rule designed to ensure that polluting facilities monitor and control their emissions. Its repeal could lead to increased levels of toxic air pollution from these facilities.
Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, expressed his concerns following the vote: “Today’s vote is extremely disappointing. Congress voted today to allow thousands of polluting facilities to disregard Clean Air Act requirements and increase emissions of some of the most dangerous and deadly hazardous air pollutants.”
Wimmer highlighted the potential health impacts associated with this decision: “The Clean Air Act identifies 187 pollutants as ‘hazardous’ because of the devastating impacts they can have on health. These bioaccumulating pollutants can cause cancer, birth defects, permanent brain damage, respiratory harm and more. They can damage the lungs and the entire body."
He further criticized Congress for its timing: “At a time when people are facing numerous threats to health – including Congressional efforts to strip away healthcare from at least 15 million people – it is nothing short of devastating that Congress has given a green light to polluters to make people sicker.” Wimmer called on President Trump to veto the resolution.
