The EPA wants stricter curbs on air pollution. But critics say lax enforcement may undermine its goals.
"Enforcement of the Clean Air Act, especially toward coal-fired plants, is "at a near standstill," concluded the Environmental Integrity Project... Can a proposed market-based system for controlling air pollution make up for less rigid enforcement of current laws? Once a potent tiger, the EPA's clean-air enforcement looks increasingly toothless. The number of suits targeting big polluters - especially coal-fired power plants - has dropped dramatically. Former EPA officials complain such lawsuits are actively discouraged. At least one recent settlement allows a violating power plant to spew more pollution into the air, not less."
Thanks to Chris Steins
FULL STORY: Clean-air cops handcuffed

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

USGS Water Science Centers Targeted for Closure
If their work is suspended, states could lose a valuable resource for monitoring, understanding, and managing water resources.

End Human Sacrifices to the Demanding Gods of Automobile Dependency and Sprawl
The U.S. has much higher traffic fatality rates than peer countries due to automobile dependency and sprawl. Better planning can reduce these human sacrifices.

Trump: Federal Government Won’t Pay for California HSR
The President has targeted federal funding for the California bullet train project since his first administration.

San Francisco Enhances Urban Planning Initiatives with Green Infrastructure
San Francisco incorporates green infrastructure in its city development initiatives, elevating the importance of sustainability in urban planning.

Chicago Approves Green Affordable Housing Plan
The Mayor’s plan calls for creating a nonprofit housing corporation tasked with building affordable housing that meets Green Building standards.
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