Air pollution in the United States

The Obama administration’s big new move on climate policy would cut climate pollution from power plants by 30 percent over the next 16 years, with the biggest reduction coming from coal-fired plants. But opponents promise a fight on many fronts.The Obama administration’s big new move on climate policy would cut climate pollution from power plants by 30 percent over the next 16 years, with the biggest reduction coming from coal-fired plants. But opponents promise a fight on many fronts.

A federal appeals court in Washington, D.C., heard two days of oral arguments in a case pitting coal, oil and steel industry groups against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The coalition that took the EPA to court claims Clean Air Act regulations are unfounded and burdensome for businesses.

Last Friday, President Obama withdrew a new draft of the Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards. Obama cited regulatory uncertainty and burden as the reasons for his decision. Joining us is David Biello of Scientific American.

The Supreme Court unanimously agreed yesterday to reject a lawsuit brought on by six states, New York City, and several land trusts, seeking to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from major power plants. Jeff Rosen of George Washington University joins us.

Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) wants to put EPA’s climate authority on hold for two years. His bill could get more votes than similar Republican legislation. Would President Obama veto?