President Joe Biden is working on securing his legacy by implementing a series of new rules on the environment and other important topics. One significant regulation aims to require coal-fired power plants to capture smokestack emissions or shut down.
These regulations are part of Biden’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from fossil-fueled electric stations, a key contributor to climate change in the United States.
As part of over 60 regulations finalized last month, Biden is committed to cutting carbon emissions by half by 2030. These regulations, led by the Environmental Protection Agency, are being issued quickly to avoid potential overturning by a new Congress or president.
Lena Moffitt, executive director of Evergreen Action, described the current situation as the Biden administration being in “green blitz mode.”
Expanding Beyond the Environment
In addition to environmental regulations, Biden’s administration has been active on various fronts, including student loan forgiveness, affordable housing, overtime pay, health, and compensation for airline passengers facing unreasonable delays.
In April, federal agencies published a record-breaking 66 significant final rules, more than half of which were expected to have a significant economic impact.
Biden has been actively promoting these rules, with Cabinet officials also being dispatched to swing states to highlight the administration’s actions.
Challenges and Deadlines
The rules created through executive actions can be easily reversed by a new administration or Congress, making their long-term impact uncertain. However, Biden is expected to veto any attempts to repeal these rules before the end of his term.
Building a Lasting Legacy
Biden’s actions go beyond the environment, with rules targeting tailpipe emissions, methane emissions, and restrictions on new oil and gas leases. These actions have faced criticism from industry groups and Republicans for being excessive.
While facing potential legal challenges, Biden’s administration is focused on staying true to its mission and defending its policies in court amidst a changing legal landscape.
Overall, the Biden administration aims to solidify its position on climate issues and build a sustainable path towards a greener future. Despite challenges and opposition, Biden’s commitment to environmental protection remains unwavering.
