House lawmakers held a hearing today on Environmental Protection Agency rules governing hazardous air pollutants. The GOP majority on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee want to know if the regulations, known as Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT), have an effect on job creation.
MACT are national standards for emission levels that vary depending on the source and type of pollutant. EPA is required to set the standards under language in the Clean Air Act. Many states have their own hazardous air pollution rules in addition to the national standards. Enforcement comes from states and the federal government but companies must develop their own plans to ensure they don't exceed the emission standards.
Testifying at today's hearing: Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, EPA Deputy Administrator Robert Perciasepe, and Josh Bevins of the Economic Policy Institute.