Number: RL34589
Title: Clean Air After the CAIR Decision: Back to Square One?
Authors: James E. McCarthy and Larry B. Parker, Resources, Science, and Industry Division; Robert Meltz, American Law Division 
Abstract: In a July 11, 2008 decision (North Carolina v. EPA), the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit vacated what has been widely regarded as the Bush Administration's most significant environmental measure, the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR). CAIR, promulgated in May 2005, would have established a regional cap-and-trade program for sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from electric generating units (EGUs) in 28 eastern states and the District of Columbia. From a policy standpoint, the court's decision seriously undermines the Bush Administration approach to clean air over the past eight years. CAIR was the lynchpin that held together the Administration's strategy for attainment of the ozone and fine particulate National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), for achieving reductions in mercury emissions from coal-fired powerplants, for addressing regional haze impacts from powerplants, and for responding to state petitions to control upwind sources of ozone and fine particulates under Section 126 of the Clean Air Act. As discussed in this report, the potential impact on communities attempting to achieve NAAQS and the impact on mercury emissions could be substantial, and has prompted some (including EPA) to call for congressional action to address the issue.
Pages: 15
Date: October 9, 2008