Central ND News

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak of North Dakota recently addressed EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin during a House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment hearing. The focus was on deregulatory priorities concerning North Dakota's energy and agriculture sectors, particularly regarding Mercury and Toxic Standards (MATS), Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR), and the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule.

During the session, Fedorchak extended an invitation to Zeldin to visit North Dakota. She expressed appreciation for his commitment to responsiveness towards industry needs, public concerns, and fiscal responsibility with taxpayer funds.

Fedorchak highlighted her past efforts in regulatory roles, stating: “One of the first actions I took in this role was to write to President Trump and Secretary Burgum to ask them to repeal 20 burdensome rules and regulations from the previous administration—and you're well on your way to doing that.” She criticized the prior administration's impact on the power sector, mentioning her experience as president of the National Utility Regulators Association where she advocated for more reasonable policies. “They completely ignored everything we said,” she noted about previous regulations affecting power grid operations.

Administrator Zeldin acknowledged the challenges faced upon his confirmation, remarking: “I often get asked what the biggest surprise or what was most shocking. Once I was confirmed as administrator, and I would say it was surprising how much we were able to do at once.” He affirmed their intention to address all issues simultaneously without delay.

The exchange underscores ongoing discussions about environmental regulations impacting state industries.