Peace Garden News

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) engaged in a discussion with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin during a House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment hearing. The focus was on deregulatory priorities impacting North Dakota's energy and agriculture sectors, specifically concerning Mercury and Toxic Standards (MATS), Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR), and the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule.

Fedorchak invited Zeldin to visit North Dakota and expressed gratitude for his commitment to being responsive to industry needs, public concerns, and prudent use of taxpayer funds.

In her remarks, Congresswoman Fedorchak highlighted her initial actions in office, stating: “One of the first actions I took in this role was to write to President Trump and Secretary Burgum to ask them to repeal 20 burdensome rules and regulations from the previous administration—and you're well on your way to doing that." She criticized the prior administration's impact on the power sector, noting: "Even though it's being pulled back, it had grave consequences on our power grid."

Administrator Zeldin shared his experience since assuming his role: “I often get asked what the biggest surprise or what was most shocking. Once I was confirmed as administrator... we want to tackle it all at the same time. We don't want to pace ourselves.”

The discussion underscores ongoing efforts by lawmakers and agency officials towards regulatory adjustments aimed at addressing past policy impacts on critical sectors.