URBANA, Ill. — Donald Trump’s choice to the lead the Environmental Protection Agency is before the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works today. Todd Gleason has more….
The confirmation hearing for Scott Pruitt covered a lot of ground but was clearly dominated by corn state Senators from both sides of the aisle wanting assurances Pruitt would support the Renewable Fuel Standard. The Oklahoman, not quite trusted because of his oil state roots, said he would follow “the intent of Congress”.
It is not the job of the Administrator of the EPA to do anything other than administer the program, and I would commit to you to do so. And the waiver, the waivers are routinely offered by the Administrator. Recently another waiver was offered. It should be used judiciously. There is a reason why Congress put into that statute those statutory objectives. The market has changed since 2005 and the waiver authority provided by this body is important, but that waiver authority should be used judiciously and the Act should be complied with and enforced consistent with the will of Congress.
…which includes the authority of the EPA Administrator to adjust the yearly volumes of each type of biofuel. Authority Scott Pruitt, if confirmed as EPA head, sees as both congressional intent and rule-of-law.
— Todd E. Gleason, Farm Broadcaster, University of Illinois
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