Govt to revoke key emissions ruling

Critics say decision harms climate efforts

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President Donald Trump's administration on Tuesday moved to reverse a foundational scientific determination that underpins the US government's authority to limit greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles and, more broadly, to combat climate change.

Speaking at an auto dealership in Indianapolis, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin argued that the 2009 Endangerment Finding was based on flawed reasoning and had inflicted serious economic harm.

“If finalised, today’s announcement would amount to the largest deregulatory action in the history of the United States,” said the former Republican congressman.

He was joined by Energy Secretary Chris Wright, a former fracking company CEO, whose department published a climate science study cited in the EPA action.

The proposed reversal — first announced in March — will be subject to a 45-day public comment period and is certain to face legal challenges.