SW Virginia News

U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) has reiterated his call on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reconsider its proposed amendment to the National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Coke Ovens. Griffith argues that the proposed rule would have detrimental effects on steel production, domestic demand for metallurgical coal, and employment opportunities in the country.

Griffith emphasizes the importance of domestic blast furnace steel production for the national economy and security. He states, "The proposed rule by the EPA...creates additional and unnecessary burdens on our coke producers, which will in turn negatively affect both steel and coal production and employment in our country." Griffith urges the EPA to adopt a balanced approach that considers economic, employment, and environmental interests when developing new emission rules for coke ovens.

In September, Griffith submitted a comment expressing his concerns about the proposed rule to the EPA docket and called for reconsideration. Additionally, on November 9th, Griffith and Congressman Rick Crawford (R-AR) sent a letter to EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan, once again expressing their concerns over the proposed rule. They highlighted that several aspects of the new standard are practically impossible to meet and would result in reduced production. Griffith and Crawford are closely monitoring the issue.

The proposed amendment to the NESHAP for Coke Ovens has raised significant concerns among industry stakeholders and lawmakers. It is evident that the potential impacts on steel and coal production, as well as employment, are at the forefront of these concerns. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the EPA will reconsider the proposed rule and take into account the various economic, employment, and environmental factors at play.

To find out more, go to this link: https://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402976