Supreme Court Upholds EPA's 80% Methane Cut, Rejects GOP States' Challenges

Oct 4, 2024, 03:52 PM

The U.S. Supreme Court refused to block the Biden administration's new environmental regulations, which require an 80% cut in methane emissions from oil and gas facilities and tighten limits on mercury and other toxic pollutants from coal-fired power plants. The rules, enacted in March, were challenged by Republican-led states, including Oklahoma, and industry groups seeking to pause their implementation while legal proceedings continue. The justices declined the emergency requests without explanation or noted dissents, allowing the Environmental Protection Agency to enforce the stricter standards. The decision is a setback for oil producers and the challenging states, as methane is a significant contributor to climate change and mercury pollution poses serious health risks.