GOP Would Target EPA Power Plant, Ozone, Water Rules if Senate Flips

"With fall elections just two weeks away, Republicans may be on the verge of wresting control of the Senate from Democrats who have blocked efforts to roll back environmental rules on carbon dioxide pollution from power plants, ozone and expanded Clean Water Act jurisdiction over U.S. waterways.

A Republican-led Senate would energize House Republicans, who have few victories to show for their nearly four-year battle to roll back environmental regulations they see as overly burdensome to the coal industry and detrimental to economic growth.

The Environmental Protection Agency's power plant rule—which would for the first time set limits on greenhouse gases emitted from electricity production—is by far the biggest target for Republican leaders, including Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), who has relentlessly attacked the administration's proposed carbon limits as Senate minority leader. McConnell is likely to become the majority leader if Republicans win the Senate—and if he holds onto his own Senate seat."

Dean Scott and Anthony Adragna report for Bloomberg BNA's Daily Environment Report October 21, 2014.