Explore

Obernolte and Pfluger Challenge California Emissions Waivers with Congressional Resolutions

Obernolte and Pfluger Challenge California Emissions Waivers with Congressional Resolutions

U.S. Representatives Jay Obernolte and August Pfluger have introduced resolutions under the Congressional Review Act to overturn Environmental Protection Agency waivers that allow California to enforce emissions standards stricter than federal regulations. These waivers, according to the lawmakers, increase costs and limit consumer choice by imposing mandates on small businesses and consumers. Obernolte's resolution targets the California Air Resources Board's Small Off-Road Engine amendments, while Pfluger's resolution addresses vehicle emissions standards. The resolutions aim to prevent California's standards from becoming de facto national policies, arguing that they harm economic interests and consumer freedom.

California's Carbon Storage Project Faces Regulatory and Environmental Challenges

California's Carbon Storage Project Faces Regulatory and Environmental Challenges

California Resources Corp. has initiated a carbon storage project at Elk Hills, Kern County, despite the absence of state-specific regulations. The project, approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, involves burying carbon dioxide to combat climate change. However, the lack of state rules raises concerns about oversight and accountability, particularly if carbon escapes from older wells. The project is part of California's broader strategy to meet its climate goals, but it has sparked debate over the adequacy of current regulatory frameworks and the potential environmental risks.

States Consider Defying President Trump's New Vaccine Order Amid Policy Changes

States Consider Defying President Trump's New Vaccine Order Amid Policy Changes

Several states are considering opposing President Trump's new executive order on childhood vaccines, which introduces 'Gold Standard Childhood Vaccine Recommendations.' This order reduces the number of diseases for which children are federally recommended to receive immunizations and suggests states review school-entry vaccine laws. Many states, particularly those led by Democrats, already rely on medical sources other than the CDC for vaccine guidance. States like California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii have formed alliances to issue science-based vaccine recommendations, prioritizing safety and transparency over federal directives.

Truth in Labeling Act Introduced by Rep. Lou Correa and Sen. Jeff Merkley to Standardize Recycling Labels

Truth in Labeling Act Introduced by Rep. Lou Correa and Sen. Jeff Merkley to Standardize Recycling Labels

Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA) and Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) have introduced the Truth in Labeling Act of 2026, a bicameral bill aimed at creating national standards for labeling products as recyclable, compostable, reusable, or refillable. The legislation directs the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to establish enforceable definitions for these terms and develop a standardized on-package label. This initiative seeks to replace the current inconsistent state rules and voluntary industry guidelines, providing clear labeling to help consumers make informed decisions. The bill also sets specific numeric thresholds for recyclability and compostability claims, ensuring that only materials with established recovery infrastructure can be labeled as such. Violations of these standards would be considered deceptive practices under the FTC Act, with penalties supporting federal recycling infrastructure and education programs.

EPA Reconsiders Stricter Smog Rules for Southeast Wisconsin Amid Business Concerns

EPA Reconsiders Stricter Smog Rules for Southeast Wisconsin Amid Business Concerns

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reevaluating its 2024 decision to impose stricter penalties on southeast Wisconsin for not meeting national air quality standards for ozone pollution. This reconsideration comes after state environmental leaders and business groups argued that the regulations were costly and did not address the primary sources of pollution, which they claim originate from out-of-state. The EPA's decision to reclassify Milwaukee, Sheboygan County, and Kenosha County from 'Moderate' to 'Serious' nonattainment areas in December 2024 led to increased regulations. The reconsideration process will include a public comment period, although specific details and timelines are not yet available.

US Senators Propose Legislation to Protect Water Systems from Cyberattacks

US Senators Propose Legislation to Protect Water Systems from Cyberattacks

In response to a series of cyberattacks on municipal water systems in the U.S., allegedly by Iran, Senators Adam Schiff and Amy Klobuchar have introduced the Water Cyber Shield Act. This legislation aims to enhance the cybersecurity of drinking water and wastewater systems. The bill proposes expanding the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) authority to conduct cybersecurity assessments and enforce corrective actions. It also allocates $300 million to help vulnerable systems comply with new cybersecurity standards. The proposal follows warnings from the FBI, CISA, and NSA about the increasing threat of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure.

Trump is making a rare Western trip to raise cash for Republicans and talk about the economy

Trump is making a rare Western trip to raise cash for Republicans and talk about the economy

President Donald Trump is making a rare visit to California and Nevada to try to draw contrasts with Democrats on the economy and other issues

California senators want to curb placing bets on wildfires

California senators want to curb placing bets on wildfires

Officials say the practice could tempt people to commit arson and “influence” fires already burning.

EPA Faces Criticism Over Incomplete Lead Cleanup in Omaha

EPA Faces Criticism Over Incomplete Lead Cleanup in Omaha

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been criticized for not fully addressing lead contamination in Omaha, Nebraska. Despite significant efforts and financial investment in environmental cleanup, more than half of the yards in a section of Omaha remain contaminated with lead levels high enough to pose health risks, particularly to children. The EPA's current cleanup standard, set in 2009, requires action only if lead levels exceed 400 parts per million, a threshold based on outdated health recommendations. Recent tests by the Flatwater Free Press and ProPublica found that many homes still have lead concentrations above 100 parts per million, a level now considered risky by modern health guidelines. The EPA is conducting further soil testing to determine if the cleanup site should be expanded or if the lead threshold for action should be lowered.

Clean Air Clubs Combat Wildfire Smoke in Rural U.S. Communities

Clean Air Clubs Combat Wildfire Smoke in Rural U.S. Communities

In response to increasing wildfire smoke, Clean Air Clubs are emerging in rural U.S. communities to provide protective resources. Miquette Thompson, a resident of rural Mendocino County, California, has been organizing efforts to distribute N95 masks and air purifiers to combat the hazardous air quality caused by nearby wildfires. These clubs, part of a broader network initiated by Emily Dupree in Chicago, aim to address the public health challenges posed by both wildfire smoke and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The clubs operate lending libraries for air purifiers and distribute masks to vulnerable populations, emphasizing the importance of community-led initiatives in areas with limited resources.

Clean Air Clubs Mobilize to Protect Americans from Wildfire Smoke

Clean Air Clubs Mobilize to Protect Americans from Wildfire Smoke

Clean air clubs, initially formed to distribute PPE during the Covid pandemic, are now providing air purifiers and masks to communities affected by wildfire smoke. These mutual aid groups, such as the Mendo Clean Air Club, are helping residents in areas like Mendocino County, California, where smoke from nearby wildfires has led to hazardous air quality. The clubs operate lending libraries for air purifiers and distribute masks to help protect vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with respiratory conditions.

Transgender American Returns Home After Failed Asylum Bid in Europe

Transgender American Returns Home After Failed Asylum Bid in Europe

Jane-Michelle Arc, a transgender American, has returned to California after a failed attempt to seek asylum in the Netherlands. Arc fled the U.S. following President Trump's reelection, fearing for her safety as a trans woman. However, life in the Ter Apel refugee camp proved more dangerous, with Arc facing anti-trans hostility from other asylum seekers. Arc's experience highlights the challenges faced by transgender individuals seeking refuge abroad, as well as the difficulties of living in refugee camps.