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EPA considers rolling back coal-ash rules

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Environmental Protection Agency is considering rolling back its coal-ash rules to save utility companies money.

The agency set Monday as a deadline for public comments on the proposed changes.

The plan would give states more power to include:

  • Establish requirements for how facilities respond to and remediate releases from coal ash ponds.
  • Establish groundwater protection standards.

Critics said the state's handling of the Dan River spill in 2014 is an example of why federal regulation is so important.

A Duke Energy spokesperson said the company appreciates the EPA's proposal, which would ensure common-sense and cost-effective solutions that protect the environment.