EPA Proposes Repeal of 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding

President Donald Trump's administration, led by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, has proposed rescinding the 2009 'endangerment finding' that classifies carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases as threats to public health and welfare. This scientific finding underpins numerous climate regulations under the Clean Air Act, including vehicle emission standards. Zeldin described the repeal as the largest deregulatory action in U.S. history, aimed at reducing regulatory costs exceeding $1 trillion and rolling back a total of 31 environmental rules. The proposal faces strong criticism from environmental groups and experts who warn it would hinder efforts to combat climate change, increase fuel and maintenance costs for drivers, and escalate economic costs from climate disasters. The rule change must undergo a public comment period and is expected to face legal challenges from states like California and environmental organizations. Critics argue the move ignores worsening climate impacts and risks public health, while supporters claim previous administrations misused science and law to impose costly regulations.