The Daily Signal Can the EPA Help Undo Virginia's Climate Mandates?
Aug 1, 2025
In this discussion, Steve Haner, an analyst for the Thomas Jefferson Institute, delves into the implications of the EPA's recent move to negate the 2009 Endangerment Finding. He explains how Virginia's Clean Economy Act mirrors California's aggressive climate mandates, pushing for net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 while throttling new energy projects. The conversation also unpacks the political dynamics surrounding climate policy in Virginia, including potential paths for legal challenges and the need for bipartisan support as energy demands grow.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
EPA's 2009 Carbon Dioxide Finding
- EPA's 2009 "Endangerment Finding" classified carbon dioxide as a pollutant, making it the legal basis for climate regulations.
- Rescinding this finding could dismantle wide-ranging federal rules related to emissions and climate change.
Virginia Law Independent from EPA
- The Virginia Clean Economy Act was passed by the state legislature and is independent of the federal EPA regulations.
- Even if the federal endangerment finding is reversed, Virginia's law remains in effect until state lawmakers act.
Clarify Candidates' Energy Positions
- The debate over building a new natural gas plant in Virginia will be a key campaign issue in the upcoming election.
- Candidates should clearly state their positions to help voters understand their priorities on energy reliability.