U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith representing Virginia's 9th Congressional District | Official U.S. House headshot
U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith representing Virginia's 9th Congressional District | Official U.S. House headshot
The U.S. House of Representatives has approved H.J. Res. 61, a resolution led by Representative Morgan Griffith aimed at overturning an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule concerning the rubber tire manufacturing industry. This resolution, under the Congressional Review Act, seeks to annul the EPA's National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) rule, which was finalized on November 29, 2024.
The NESHAP rule requires rubber tire manufacturers to install regenerative thermal oxidizers (RTOs), a measure that could incur significant costs and lead to job losses within the industry. Critics argue that the EPA did not provide adequate evidence of public health benefits from this regulation.
House Republican leaders have expressed strong support for Rep. Griffith’s resolution. Speaker Mike Johnson stated, “House Republicans passed legislation to remove the Biden Administration’s handcuffs on American energy and protect American workers, consumers, and businesses.” He emphasized their collaboration with the Trump Administration to enhance American energy dominance.
Majority Leader Steve Scalise criticized the financial impact of the NESHAP rule on tire manufacturers, asserting it would "crush American jobs" and "raise prices for families." He commended Rep. Griffith for addressing what he termed an "ill-informed and harmful rule."
Majority Whip Tom Emmer highlighted efforts to roll back regulations from the previous administration that he believes threaten jobs and increase consumer costs. Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain echoed these sentiments, accusing Democrats of attempting to over-regulate businesses under climate change policies.
House Committee on Energy and Commerce Chairman Brett Guthrie criticized the EPA's data collection process related to this rulemaking and pledged continued efforts with President Trump and other officials to address these issues.
Rep. Morgan Griffith expressed gratitude towards his colleagues for supporting his initiative against what he described as burdensome regulations affecting rubber tire manufacturers across Virginia and beyond.
The passage of this resolution is part of a broader effort by House Republicans to dismantle regulatory measures they view as detrimental to economic growth and job creation in America.