U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop concerned over potential impact of new carbon emission rules

ALBANY — U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop, D-Albany, weighed in on the discussion Tuesday on the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed regulations that would cut back carbon dioxide produced by U.S. power plants by 30 percent over the next 16 years.

Bishop, who represents the 2nd Congressional District, said he was concerned that the carbon reductions will place a greater burden on Georgia and its residents than some other states.

“As I have always said, any proposed regulations at both the federal and state levels need to be subject to a cost benefit analysis, be based on sound science, and should just make common sense, in this case ensuring the protection of our environment while not threatening the economy,” Bishop said. “The proposed EPA regulations limiting carbon dioxide emissions from power plants could have a devastating impact on the economy of the Southeastern United States, which to a large extent relies on coal-based fuel for much of its energy needs. At the same time, we have only one environment.

Bishop said he was “deeply concerned that states like Georgia may face a disproportionate burden in complying with these proposed regulations. Without the proper vetting and feedback, the EPA’s proposed regulations’ ultimate impact could be the reduction of energy generation, higher energy prices for consumers, the closure of power plants, and the loss of thousands of jobs.”

As coal gives way to natural gas to fuel power plants, it could adversely impact agriculture by driving up the costs of nitrogen fertilizers, which would result in higher costs at the supermarket, he observed.

“Additionally,” Bishop said, “the guidelines may extend reduction measures beyond the Clean Air Act requirements, potentially infringing upon states’ rights and their decision making process for energy production.

The lawmaker said he signed a letter to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy last month asking for the comment period on the new regulations be extended by about four months because of the potential widespread impact of their implementation.

“I believe that stakeholders both in support and in opposition to the proposed rule should take the opportunity to weigh in with their comments,” he said. “Feedback to the EPA will assist (in ensuring) that energy will continue to be provided to our businesses and families in a safe, affordable, and environmentally responsible manner.”