Bilirakis: EPA Regulations are Misguided, Will Increase Costs for Americans

"The Obama Administration's proposed greenhouse gas regulation for existing fossil fuel power plants, particularly coal-generated plants, not only threatens our fragile economy and our energy independence, but promises to make it harder for Americans to make ends meet. When it comes to regulations, there must be an appropriate balance between necessity and burden. The EPA proposal to cut emissions by thirty percent will cause households to potentially lose thousands in disposable income. Hardworking Americans cannot afford to see their power costs increase, as the economy struggles to recover and the labor force participation rate is at its lowest since the Carter Administration. The Administration's proposal closes the door on a vast and proven energy source and will hurt ratepayers, particularly seniors, the impoverished, and others on fixed-incomes. This vision will stifle commerce, make it more difficult for all businesses to thrive, and will further stunt job growth. I believe we can protect the environment and reduce emissions in a responsible manner, but that is not what the EPA has currently proposed."