WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 14, 2026) — A newly finalized rule to wholly erase the Environmental Protection Agency’s ability to safeguard people and wildlife from dangerous power plant emissions is an “abdication” of its mission, flies in the face of scientific facts, and will hasten the climate, wildlife, and environmental justice crises.

“We know carbon dioxide and other emissions from power plants are harming wildlife and people: fueling public health crises, exacerbating extreme heat and weather disasters, and hastening the extinction of species,” said Shannon Heyck-Williams, associate vice president for climate and energy at the National Wildlife Federation. “The EPA’s decision to barrel forward with this repeal despite widespread opposition is an abdication of its mission and will hurt the United States. Congress or future administrations should reverse this rule as soon as they’re able.”