Political Quotes

“Mr. Chair, I rise in opposition to this amendment, which would effectively bar the EPA from approving a waiver of Federal preemption for California's in-use locomotive rule. Congress carefully crafted the Clean Air Act to recognize the diverse air pollution challenges facing each State. Due to a history of severe air quality problems, the EPA can grant California waivers to set vehicle emissions standards that are more protective than those at the Federal level, including for locomotives. While the EPA retains the authority to promulgate emission standards for new locomotives and locomotive engines, California is well within its rights to request a waiver of Federal preemption for regulations having to do with existing, or in-use, locomotives and locomotive engines. Legal technicalities aside, this rule is critical to the public health and welfare of Californians and for residents of the States that may choose to adopt these stronger standards in the future, thanks to the flexibilities embedded in the Clean Air Act. Diesel-powered locomotives emit dangerous air pollutants, including particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and greenhouse gases. Exposure to this toxic and harmful pollution has been linked to cancer, asthma, cardiopulmonary illnesses, reproductive health harm, and premature mortality. California's rule is expected to prevent 3,200 premature deaths, 1,100 hospital admissions, and 1,500 emergency room visits and deliver $32 billion in health savings.…”