US environmental regulators delay deadlines for coal ash cleanup again
What happened
US environmental regulators are proposing to extend deadlines for coal-fired power plants to clean up their coal ash waste. This means plants will have more time to complete evaluations and meet new disposal requirements for their toxic waste ponds.
Why it matters
This proposal gives coal plant operators more time to comply with rules for managing coal combustion residuals, which are toxic byproducts. The rules were put in place to prevent contamination of groundwater and surface water. Delaying these deadlines means the environmental risks from these waste sites will continue for longer.
The signal
Watch for the final rule and whether the extended deadlines are adopted, and then whether states or environmental groups challenge the delays in court.