SW Virginia News

U.S. Senators Tim Scott, Roger Wicker, and Congressman Morgan Griffith have introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution aiming to overturn the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) amendments to the Rubber Tire Manufacturing National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) rule. The amendments were finalized by the Biden administration in November 2024.

Senator Scott criticized the rule as counterproductive, stating, "It will increase emissions and cost job creators millions in compliance expenses each year." He emphasized his commitment to opposing what he views as government overreach detrimental to South Carolina's workers and economy.

Representative Griffith, Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment, also voiced opposition. He argued that recent EPA regulations have unnecessarily burdened American industry and stated his intent to roll back regulations he considers unreasonable.

House Committee on Energy and Commerce Chairman Brett Guthrie highlighted concerns about increased costs and potential job risks due to the new standards. He expressed gratitude towards Chairman Griffith for addressing this issue with congressional colleagues.

Anne Forristall Luke, President and CEO of the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA), added that while tire manufacturers comply with existing NESHAP standards, the revised rule imposes significant financial burdens without substantial benefits. She urged Congress to act against it to protect both the industry and environment.

The resolution is supported by additional Senators Lindsey Graham, Shelley Moore Capito, Marsha Blackburn, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Tim Sheehy, and several Representatives including Gary Palmer, Derek Schmidt, Mike Bost, Claudia Tenney among others.

According to background information provided with the release, facilities involved in rubber tire manufacturing face new emission limits affecting various production subcategories. A 2020 review found existing NESHAP standards adequately protected public health. The EPA’s risk review could not quantify public health benefits from these amendments but noted potential disbenefits due to increased CO2 emissions resulting from required equipment changes.