Central ND News

WASHINGTON - Senator John Hoeven has expressed his satisfaction after a federal judge granted North Dakota's request to intervene in a lawsuit brought by the Sierra Club against the State Implementation Plans for Regional Haze. The plans, including North Dakota's, were under consideration and pending approval by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Hoeven, who has been an advocate for the state's haze mitigation plan, worked to ensure the EPA's approval of the plan, which needs to be regularly updated.

"Time and again, North Dakota has been rated as having some of the best air quality in the nation, which has been achieved through a state-led plan, not federal mandates," said Hoeven. He highlighted the success of North Dakota's regional haze plan, which had previously received approval from the EPA in 2015, blocking a challenge from environmentalist groups. This prevented the imposition of a costly one-size-fits-all plan. Hoeven emphasized that the latest haze mitigation filing in August 2022 demonstrated North Dakota's commitment to surpassing its air quality targets.

The senator expressed his concern that environmentalist groups are attempting to undermine the state's authority and support the Biden administration's regulatory overreach. He welcomed the decision to allow North Dakota to intervene in the lawsuit, stating that it will enable the state to preserve its cost-effective approach to regulation. Hoeven emphasized the importance of state-led regulation and its effectiveness in achieving favorable air quality outcomes.

North Dakota's success in maintaining high air quality standards through its state-led regulations serves as an example for the nation. The state's approach has been proven effective and has consistently resulted in positive air quality ratings. Senator Hoeven's efforts to secure the EPA's approval and defend North Dakota's authority in regulating haze mitigation demonstrate his commitment to preserving the state's cost-effective and successful approach.

As the lawsuit progresses, North Dakota will continue to fight for its state-led regulatory approach, ensuring that the interests of the state and its residents are protected. The outcome of this case will have broader implications for the balance of power between federal and state regulations, highlighting the importance of recognizing the effectiveness and success of state-led initiatives in achieving environmental goals.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-north-dakota-proves-time-and-again-that-state-led-regulation-is-the-right-approach-for-our-nation