Notice: Subcommittee on Energy and Power Schedules Third Clean Air Act Forum

Press Release

Rep. Ed Whitfield (R-KY), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Energy and Power, has scheduled a third, bipartisan Clean Air Act forum for Thursday, November 29, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. in room 2123 of the Rayburn House Office Building. The third forum continues the theme of the first two events: "State, Local, and Federal Cooperation in the Clean Air Act." Participants representing state, local, and tribal governments will be announced.

The forum series is intended to provide an opportunity for members of Congress to hear a broad range of perspectives from experts about their experiences in implementing the Clean Air Act.

"In my discussions with people both here in DC and outside the beltway, everyone found the first two forums to be helpful in discussing the Clean Air Act," said Whitfield. "These forums have started a healthy conversation on the Act and I have been pleased with the feedback we've received. For that reason, I look forward to welcoming more state, local, and tribal experts to share their views on what works well and what doesn't in our efforts to protect our nation's air. I invite all members of the House of Representatives to join me as we continue to have these thoughtful discussions."

The Clean Air Act was signed by President Richard Nixon in 1970 to control air pollution on a national level. Significant amendments were passed in 1977 and 1990. Since adoption of the 1990 amendments, air quality has improved dramatically. Despite the Act's apparent effectiveness, the 1990 amendments are characterized by frequent litigation, increasingly costly mandates, and a complex web of interrelated requirements for state, local and tribal governments.

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